Results: 2210 books

The Two-Gun Man

Charles Alden Seltzer

"The Two-Gun Man" by Charles Alden Seltzer is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds in a rugged Western setting, centering around the main character, a skilled gunfighter named Ferguson who rides into the dubious town of Dry Bottom. The narrative explores themes of honor, conflict, and the complexities of human nature against the backdrop of a lawless frontier populated by various colorful characters. The opening of the novel introduces Ferguson as he approaches Dry Bottom, a town known for its saloons and questionable morals. As he rides into town, he witnesses a shooting competition and soon finds himself tangled in a confrontation with a local gunman. The narrative sets up an atmosphere of tension and rivalry, highlighting Ferguson's quiet confidence and skill with firearms. Additionally, the initial chapters establish the social dynamics and moral decay of Dry Bottom, suggesting that Ferguson’s arrival may have significant implications for the characters inhabiting this desolate landscape. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

The Boss of the Lazy Y

Charles Alden Seltzer

"The Boss of the Lazy Y" by Charles Alden Seltzer is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the main character, Calumet Marston, who returns to his father's ranch, the Lazy Y, after a long exile that has shaped him into a hardened man filled with bitterness and resentment. As he grapples with his past and the strained relationship with his father, he encounters Betty Clayton, who has her own claims on the ranch and a strong, defiant personality that challenges him. At the start of the novel, Calumet is depicted as a complex character wrestling with feelings of hatred and introspection as he rides toward the Lazy Y. He reflects on his difficult upbringing and the emotional scars left by his parents, particularly his father's indifference. After arriving at the ranch, he finds it in disrepair, symbolizing both his father's failure and his own internal struggles. A violent encounter with Betty ensues when she mistakenly believes him to be a threat to her grandfather, leading to revelations about the fate of Calumet's father and his own unexpected place in this new reality. The opening sets the stage for a story of confrontation, redemption, and the complexities of familial ties. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

The Range Boss

Charles Alden Seltzer

"The Range Boss" by Charles Alden Seltzer is a novel written in the early 20th century. Set against the backdrop of the American West, the story revolves around the character Rex Randerson, a range boss who becomes embroiled in the lives of the Harkness family as they manage their ranch, the Flying W. The themes of resilience, romance, and the rugged beauty of the frontier create a narrative filled with challenges and interpersonal tensions. The opening of the book introduces Rex Randerson as he observes a buckboard carrying newcomers, including Ruth Harkness, the new owner of the Flying W, as they arrive in his territory. As Randerson grapples with the presence of city-dwellers in what he considers a wild land, he witnesses a mishap with the buckboard attempting to cross a treacherous river. His decision to intervene leads to an encounter with Ruth, setting the stage for their developing relationship amidst the complexities of ranch life and local rivalries. This opening portion establishes not only the main characters but also the conflict they face in adapting to their respective roles while navigating their evolving dynamics. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

'Drag' Harlan

Charles Alden Seltzer

"Drag" Harlan by Charles Alden Seltzer is a novel written in the early 20th century." The story is set in a harsh desert landscape and follows the adventures of the titular character, Drag Harlan, who is a rugged and capable rider caught up in a world filled with danger and outlaws. As the narrative unfolds, it introduces themes of reputation, conflict, and survival in the unforgiving environment of the American West. "The opening of the novel presents Drag Harlan as a solitary rider traversing the desolate desert, conveying a sense of foreboding and introspection." As he navigates the sand dunes on his black horse, Purgatory, he reflects on the threat of danger from rival factions and the possibility of Apache attacks. The narrative establishes Harlan's inner strength and familiarity with the harsh setting, hinting at his skilled prowess with weapons. This initial chapter sets the tone for a tale rich in conflict and exploration, as Harlan encounters adversaries and on a subsequent ride, investigates gunshots that may indicate further trouble, suggesting the unfolding drama that lies ahead. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

'Firebrand' Trevison

Charles Alden Seltzer

"Firebrand" Trevison by Charles Alden Seltzer is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the character of "Brand" Trevison, a rugged and skilled cowboy who is grappling with the changing landscape of the American West as railroads and newcomers threaten traditional ranch life. The narrative sets up a conflict between Trevison, who exhibits both physical prowess and a strong will, and the manipulative businessman Corrigan, hinting at themes of power, conflict, and personal honor. At the start of the tale, readers are introduced to Trevison as he rides his impressive black horse, Nigger, near the newly established town of Manti. The narrative unfolds with an aura of tension as Trevison navigates his disdain for the encroaching development brought by the railroad, while displaying his remarkable riding abilities. A chance encounter leads to a confrontation with Corrigan, escalating into a physical fight fueled by resentment and pride, which sets the stage for an ongoing battle of wills. The opening chapter establishes not only the fierce independence of Trevison but also introduces Rosalind Benham, who finds herself caught between admiration for the powerful cowboy and her family's business interests, hinting at a budding romantic tension. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

The Trail to Yesterday

Charles Alden Seltzer

"The Trail to Yesterday" by Charles Alden Seltzer is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Sheila Langford, a spirited young woman who finds herself lost in a desolate wilderness as she travels to the Double R ranch, owned by her father. Through her encounters with the rugged landscape and the mysterious cowboy Dakota, the narrative immerses the reader in themes of danger, love, and self-discovery against a backdrop of the untamed West. The opening of the book introduces Sheila as she grapples with the anxiety of being lost in an unfamiliar and harsh environment. As she confronts the physical and emotional challenges of her journey, she meets Dakota, a cowboy whose presence brings both danger and intrigue. Their initial interaction is marked by tension and uncertainty, hinting at complexities in their eventual relationship. Sheila's inner conflict about her circumstances and her growing awareness of Dakota's character set the stage for a narrative filled with suspense and emotional depth, suggesting that her journey to the ranch may lead to unforeseen challenges and personal revelations. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

The Coming of the Law

Charles Alden Seltzer

"The Coming of the Law" by Charles Alden Seltzer is a Western novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative introduces Kent Hollis, the son of a deceased cattle rancher, who arrives in the lawless town of Dry Bottom to claim his inheritance while facing off against the oppressive local cattlemen's association led by the unscrupulous Dunlavey. Hollis's journey revolves around themes of justice and law, as he seeks to restore order to the land his father fought for. At the start of the novel, Hollis arrives in Dry Bottom during a train stop, feeling out of place in the dusty, desolate town filled with saloons and rough cowboys. His first encounter with a local woman in distress quickly escalates as he intervenes when she is harassed by a brutal man. This altercation sets the stage for Hollis's character as a defender of the vulnerable and hints at the larger conflicts he will engage in. The opening sets up a mixture of personal conflict and socio-political struggles, establishing Hollis’s determination to confront the challenges posed by both the lawless environment and the memory of his father's fight against corruption. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

The Ranchman

Charles Alden Seltzer

"The Ranchman" by Charles Alden Seltzer is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Quinton Taylor, a rugged character navigating his return to his hometown of Dawes, amid various dramatic situations. The narrative sets a landscape of a young town brimming with ambition and conflict, hinting at larger themes of loyalty, deception, and resilience in the face of adversity. At the start of the novel, the scene unfolds aboard a hot Pullman train crossing the desert landscape toward Dawes. Taylor struggles with discomfort in ill-fitting clothes, hinting at his background as a cowboy, while he observes fellow passengers, including a girl named Marion Harlan and two men, Carrington and Parsons, who appear to have ulterior motives regarding the town. Taylor's instincts kick in when he overhears their intentions to "own Dawes," stirring feelings of protectiveness for his hometown. As the train approaches its destination, tensions rise with the introduction of a train robbery, where Taylor reveals his true nature by intervening heroically, solidifying his role in a story interwoven with personal stakes and emerging conflicts. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Aseeton kaksintaistelu : Romaani Suuresta Lännestä

Charles Alden Seltzer

"Aseeton kaksintaistelu: Romaani Suuresta Lännestä" by Charles Alden Seltzer is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Josephine Hamilton, a young woman traveling through the Wild West, where she encounters a group of cowboys and becomes embroiled in a dramatic confrontation when she learns of a planned lynching. The narrative dives into themes of justice, morality, and the cultural clash between the law and the harsh realities of frontier life. At the start of the novel, Josephine is on a train journey, feeling a mix of excitement and apprehension as she witnesses the desolate landscape outside her window. During a stop, she overhears conversations about a lynching and becomes increasingly troubled by the thought of imminent violence against a man accused of horse theft. As she steps off the train, driven by a blend of curiosity and concern, she finds herself amidst a gathering crowd of onlookers and cowboys, where she quickly realizes that her moral beliefs are at odds with the rough justice methods of the local men. The opening sets the stage for her internal conflict and the unfolding drama of life in the Wild West, hinting at her determination to challenge the crowd and protect the accused man. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

The Wedge of Gold

C. C. (Charles Carroll) Goodwin

"The Wedge of Gold" by C.C. Goodwin is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around two young miners, James Sedgwick and John Browning, who work in the Comstock lode in Nevada as they aspire to achieve wealth and success in the mining industry. Through their journey, themes of friendship, ambition, and the impact of mining on civilization are explored in depth. At the start of the novel, the narrative introduces the historical significance and grandeur of mining, positing that civilization is rooted in humanity's ability to harness mining's vast resources. The characters engage in lively conversations about their prospects as miners while discussing their financial strategies and dreams for the future. The dialogue reveals their camaraderie and hints at their backstories while they work in extreme conditions within the mines. As they express their hopes for future prosperity, the stage is set for their adventures and challenges ahead in pursuit of a better life beyond the mines. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

The Comstock Club

C. C. (Charles Carroll) Goodwin

"The Comstock Club" by C. C. Goodwin is a novel written in the late 19th century. This narrative focuses on the lives and camaraderie of a group of miners in Virginia City, Nevada, as they form a club to foster friendship, discuss their lives, and navigate the challenges of mining in the American West. The characters, including Alex Strong, Colonel Savage, and others from various backgrounds, engage in lively discussions, expressing their dreams and hardships while entwining humor and camaraderie into their shared experiences. The opening of the novel introduces readers to an anniversary celebration in Pioneer Hall, where Alex Strong delivers a poignant speech about the dedication of pioneers who face daunting challenges far from the comforts of civilization. As the night unfolds, Strong and Colonel Savage engage in a playful yet profound dialogue, touching on themes of hardship, ambition, and personal sacrifice. The narrative sets the tone for the community created within the Comstock Club, where diverse characters come together to share their stories, and the bonds formed by shared struggles underscore the essence of human connection amidst the harsh realities of mining life. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Percy Bysshe Shelley as a Philosopher and Reformer

Charles Sotheran

"PERCY BYSSHE SHELLEY AS A PHILOSOPHER AND REFORMER" by Charles Sotheran is a philosophical examination and reformative analysis written in the late 19th century. The work explores the life, ideas, and contributions of Percy Bysshe Shelley, emphasizing his role as a thinker and advocate for social justice and personal freedom. Through a detailed examination of Shelley’s poetry and prose, the text illustrates his revolutionary ideas regarding power, religion, and human rights. The opening of the work sets the stage for Sotheran's exploration of Shelley's legacy, beginning with a dedication and reflections on the poet's life and struggles against societal constraints. Sotheran connects Shelley's experiences of persecution and ostracism to the development of his ideas, highlighting how personal crises fueled his philosophical inquiries. The narrative progresses to establish Shelley's perspective on the oppressive systems of his time, including critiques of political tyranny and traditional religious doctrines. Sotheran's analytical approach promises a comprehensive understanding of Shelley as both a poet and a reformer shaped by his resolute belief in freedom and human dignity. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

The First Book of Farming

C. L. (Charles Landon) Goodrich

"The First Book of Farming" by Charles L. Goodrich is a comprehensive guide on agricultural principles, written in the early 20th century. Designed for farmers, students, and teachers, this instructional book emphasizes the fundamental truths and principles of farming, particularly focusing on the growth and development of plants and the soil conditions necessary for successful agriculture. Through a series of observable experiments and explanations, the text seeks to engage readers in understanding these principles deeply. The opening of the book outlines the author's intent to identify vital facts that aid both aspiring farmers and those already engaged in farming to enhance their practices and productivity. Goodrich begins with an introduction to plants, emphasizing the importance of the root system and conditions necessary for their growth—such as air, moisture, and nutrient availability. He encourages readers to actively participate in observing and experimenting with farming practices, laying a foundation for the structured exploration of soil, plants, and their interactions that follow in subsequent chapters. This hands-on approach aims to help readers connect theoretical knowledge with practical applications in farming. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Four American Leaders

Charles William Eliot

"Four American Leaders" by Charles William Eliot is a collection of essays written in the early 20th century, specifically around the early 1900s. This book offers a reflective examination of four prominent figures in American history: Benjamin Franklin, George Washington, William Ellery Channing, and Ralph Waldo Emerson. Each essay serves as a commemorative address that illuminates the life, character, and contributions of these influential leaders while focusing on specific aspects relevant to their legacies. In this work, Eliot presents a series of affirming studies on the lives of these leaders. The essays convey not only the historical significance of Franklin, Washington, Channing, and Emerson but also further explore their philosophies and enduring ideals. For example, Franklin's principles on education and scientific inquiry are highlighted, alongside Washington’s exemplary virtues as a leader grounded in responsibility and public service. Channing is depicted as a transformative preacher advocating for social causes, while Emerson's insights on individuality and the essence of existence are underscored. Through these portrayals, Eliot emphasizes how these leaders shaped American identity, thought, and moral philosophy while inspiring future generations. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

English-Esperanto Dictionary

J. C. (John Charles) O'Connor

"English-Esperanto Dictionary" by J. C. O'Connor and C. F. Hayes is a language reference work written in the early 20th century. The book serves as a comprehensive bilingual dictionary that translates English words into their Esperanto equivalents, catering particularly to students and enthusiasts of the Esperanto language. It aims to facilitate communication and understanding for English speakers learning Esperanto and vice versa. The opening portion of the dictionary introduces the work's purpose, acknowledging the high demand for such a resource as it is the first of its kind. The authors explain the various linguistic features of Esperanto, including the importance of roots, prefixes, and suffixes, which help in forming new words. They include a preface that highlights the challenges faced while compiling the dictionary and express gratitude for the support received from prominent figures in the Esperanto community, setting the stage for a user-friendly reference tool for language learners. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

The Bad Man: A Novel

Charles Hanson Towne

"The Bad Man: A Novel" by Charles Hanson Towne and Porter Emerson Browne is a fictional work written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds around Gilbert Jones, a young American rancher who has bravely ventured into a challenging frontier in Arizona, plagued by bandit threats and financial struggles. The narrative deals with themes of courage, love, and the quest for stability, while also touching upon the complications arising from relationships and unfulfilled dreams. At the start of the novel, Gilbert reflects on his bold decision to settle in Arizona, despite the myriad of difficulties he faces, including the looming threat of foreclosure on his ranch due to bandit raids and his financial misfortunes exacerbated by the Great War. The opening introduces his character and hints at a sense of community among ranchers dealing with the instability of their lives, including the encroachment of their neighbor Jasper Hardy, who harbors ambitions of taking over Gilbert's land. Additionally, the story begins to weave in relationships that may complicate the characters' lives, including Gilbert's past connection with Lucia Pell, the arrival of her husband Morgan Pell, and the dynamics between them all as tensions rise over property and emotional stakes. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

The Rise and Fall of Prohibition - The Human Side of What the Eighteenth Amendment and the Volstead Act Have Done to the United States

Charles Hanson Towne

"The Rise and Fall of Prohibition" by Charles Hanson Towne is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book examines the impact of the Eighteenth Amendment and the Volstead Act on American society, highlighting the unexpected consequences and complexities of Prohibition. Towne delves into the cultural and social tensions related to restrictions on alcohol, emphasizing the ways in which they have reshaped behavior and attitudes among citizens. The opening of the work introduces the perplexing nature of Prohibition, describing how it caught the American public by surprise despite the long-standing efforts of temperance advocates. Towne reflects on the irony of voters dismissing Prohibition as a mere joke only to find it thrust upon them as law. He critiques the shift in national attitude towards alcohol, arguing that Prohibition has created a culture of lawlessness and hypocrisy, where violation of laws has become commonplace, and presents a call to recognize the discontent brewing in society. The author sets the stage for a deeper exploration of these themes as he discusses the contradictions and absurdities surrounding the enforcement of Prohibition laws. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Riquet à la Houppe: Conte

Charles Perrault

"Riquet à la Houppe: Conte" by Charles Perrault is a classic fairy tale written during the late 17th century. This enchanting story illustrates themes of beauty and intelligence through the experiences of a prince born with an unusual appearance yet endowed with great intellect. The book is a whimsical exploration of love, acceptance, and the interplay between outer beauty and inner worth. The narrative centers around Riquet, a prince who, despite being unattractive, possesses the magical ability to confer intelligence to the one he loves. The story unfolds as Riquet falls in love with a beautiful princess who lacks wit. After promising to marry Riquet, the princess gains intelligence through their bond, which complicates her feelings as she learns to appreciate Riquet’s qualities. Ultimately, the themes of personal transformation and the value of kindness and intellect over superficial beauty emerge as Riquet finds his own true worth as the princess learns to see beyond appearances. The tale concludes with a celebration of love that transcends the barriers imposed by society’s judgments on beauty and intellect. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Old-Time Stories

Charles Perrault

"Old-Time Stories" by Charles Perrault is a collection of fairy tales written in the late 17th century. This enchanting work includes classic tales known as "Tales of Mother Goose," such as "Cinderella," "Little Red Riding Hood," and "Puss in Boots," showcasing Perrault's talent for storytelling. These stories often feature magical elements, moral lessons, and memorable characters, inviting readers of all ages into a whimsical world of imagination and wonder. The opening of "Old-Time Stories" introduces the well-loved tale of "The Sleeping Beauty in the Wood." It tells of a king and queen who, after much sorrow over their childlessness, finally welcome a daughter. A grand celebration ensues, where fairies are invited to bestow gifts upon the princess. However, a spiteful old fairy curses her, and a good fairy mitigates the curse to a deep sleep lasting a hundred years. The story sets the stage for themes of beauty, fate, and the eventual arrival of a prince to awaken the slumbering princess, beginning an adventure filled with enchantment and suspense. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Tales of Passed Times

Charles Perrault

"Tales of Passed Times" by Charles Perrault is a collection of classic fairy tales written in the late 17th century. This enchanting compilation includes well-known stories such as "The Sleeping Beauty," "Little Red Riding-Hood," and "Cinderella," showcasing the rich tradition of storytelling that has captivated audiences for generations. Each tale is imbued with moral lessons, imaginative elements, and memorable characters that reflect timeless themes of love, bravery, and the triumph of virtue over malevolence. At the start of the collection, Perrault introduces "The Sleeping Beauty in the Wood," detailing the melancholy plight of a King and Queen longing for a child. After the birth of their daughter, a royal christening is held, where seven fairies bestow magical gifts upon her. However, a spiteful, overlooked fairy curses the child, foretelling that she will prick her finger and die from a spindle's wound. A young fairy softens the curse, suggesting that instead of dying, she will enter a deep sleep for one hundred years, only to be awakened by a prince. This opening tale sets the stage for the collection, weaving a tapestry of fantastic elements, enchanting characters, and profound narratives that invite readers into the magical realm of fairy tales. (This is an automatically generated summary.)