Books matching: bravery and independence
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- #1
'True Grit' by Charles Portis is a Western novel that follows the story of fourteen-year-old Mattie Ross seeking revenge for her father's murder. The book is narrated in the first person by Mattie, who enlists the help of U.S. Marshal Rooster Cogburn to track down the killer, Tom Chaney. The plot is action-packed, with elements of gun battles, bravery, and a strong sense of justice prevailing throughout the story. The writing style is described as spare, clean, and filled with terse Western dialogue, making the narrative quick, to the point, and engaging.
The novel is praised for its strong and memorable protagonist, Mattie Ross, who is depicted as brave, stubborn, independent, and smart. The character of Mattie is highlighted as the heart of the story, with her unsentimental and matter-of-fact narration adding depth and humor to the events unfolding in the book. Readers appreciate the humor, character development, and the unique voice of Mattie as a narrator, making 'True Grit' a compelling and enjoyable read that delves into themes of revenge, courage, and perseverance in the Wild West.
People do not give it credence that a fourteen-year-old girl could leave home and go off in the wintertime to avenge her father's blood but it did not seem so strange then, although I will say it did ... - #2
Mara, Daughter of the Nile is a captivating tale set in Ancient Egypt, following the story of Mara, a slave girl who becomes a double spy for two contenders vying for the throne. The book intricately weaves together themes of romance, intrigue, and danger, providing a glimpse into the cultural behaviors of ancient Egypt while showcasing the struggles and desires of the characters. The plot unfolds with twists and turns, keeping readers engrossed in the fast-paced narrative that delves into palace intrigues and historical settings.
The writing style of Mara, Daughter of the Nile is praised for bringing Ancient Egypt vividly to life, with characters that feel true to life and a storyline that is both engaging and thought-provoking. The book skillfully explores themes of freedom, patriotism, and self-discovery, all set against the backdrop of a rich historical context that adds depth and authenticity to the narrative.
The city that rose beyond them shimmered, almost drained of color, in the glare of Egyptian noon. Doorways were blue-black in white buildings, alleys were plunged in shadow; the gay colors of the sail... - #3
'The Machine-Gunners' by Robert Westall is a story set during World War II, focusing on a group of children who come across a downed German pilot and a machine gun from a wrecked plane. Despite the wartime setting, the story portrays the unlikely friendship that develops between the children and the German pilot, highlighting themes of camaraderie and compassion amidst the chaos of war. The writing style is described as authentic and true to life, capturing the essence of Britain during WWII with accuracy in historical facts.
The plot revolves around the children arming themselves with the German machine gun and preparing to take on the invading German army, showcasing a tale of growing up during wartime and the bravery of young individuals faced with challenging circumstances. Readers praise the book for its engaging storyline that appeals to both children and adults, offering a unique perspective on war through the eyes of courageous youngsters.
When Chas awakened, the air-raid shelter was silent. Grey winter light was creeping round the door-curtain. It could have been any time. His mother was gone, and the little brown attaché case with the... - #4
'Highland Escape: A Scottish Medieval Romantic Adventure' in the series 'Hardy Heroines' by DD MacRae, Cathy MacRae is a captivating story of Anna, a strong and independent heroine trained in martial arts and healing. The plot revolves around Anna's journey as a skilled warrior in a time where female empowerment was rare. The story is filled with adventure, romance, and historical elements, drawing readers into a world of passion, love, jealousy, and bravery. The writing style is immersive, with vivid descriptions and engaging characters that keep the readers hooked till the end.
- #5
The Horse and His Boy is a fantasy story that follows a boy named Shasta who escapes his unhappy life to embark on a journey with a talking horse named Bree. Together, they uncover a deadly plot by the Calormen people to conquer Narnia, leading to a race against time to warn the inhabitants of the impending danger and save them from certain death. The book delves into themes of adventure, bravery, and the battle between good and evil, all while weaving in religious allusions and moral elements.
The narrative of The Horse and His Boy is centered around the escapades of Shasta and Bree as they navigate through different lands, encountering challenges and forming unlikely alliances. The story also touches on themes of destiny, courage, and the guidance of a higher power, embodied by the presence of Aslan. The book is praised for its imaginative storytelling, vivid imagery, and engaging characters, making it a captivating read for both children and adults alike.
The stranger demanded hospitality for the night which of course the fisherman dared not refuse. All the best they had was set before the Tarkaan for supper (and he didn’t think much of it) and Shasta,...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Chronicles of Narnia ) - #6
Magic Marks the Spot follows the adventurous journey of Hilary Westfield, a young girl who dreams of becoming a pirate despite her father's wishes for her to attend finishing school. With her magical talking gargoyle companion, Hilary sets sail with a group of misfit pirates on a mission to find a treasure trove of magical ore. Along the way, she faces challenges, makes tough decisions, and learns the true meaning of friendship and loyalty. The book is filled with humor, action, and a touch of magic, making it an engaging and delightful read for children and adults alike.
The story is filled with witty humor, rollicking adventures, and endearing characters, from the fearless Hilary to her hilarious sidekick, the gargoyle. As Hilary navigates the challenges of pirate life and uncovers secrets about her loved ones, readers are taken on a journey that celebrates independence, bravery, and the power of making the right choices even when they are difficult. With themes of friendship, loyalty, and courage woven throughout, Magic Marks the Spot offers a heartwarming and entertaining tale that will captivate young readers and leave them eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series.
Her parents disapproved, she knew perfectly well, but she much preferred the gargoyle’s company to theirs. Hilary and the gargoyle did not always see eye to eye, but she found his opinion of finishing... - #7
'The Curve of Time' by M. Wylie Blanchet is a memoir that follows the adventures of a widowed single mother and her five children as they explore the coastal waters of the Pacific Northwest in the 1920s and 1930s. The author, known as Capi, shares tales of their daring journeys through treacherous waters, encounters with wildlife, and interactions with the remote communities along the British Columbia coast. Through her spare, crisp, and factual writing style, Blanchet paints a vivid picture of a time when exploration meant relying on one's own skills and resourcefulness, without modern technology or conveniences.
Blanchet's storytelling not only captures the beauty of the landscape and waterways around Victoria Island but also delves into the emotional and physical challenges faced by a woman navigating the waters with her children. The book offers a glimpse into a bygone era where independence, bravery, and a deep connection to nature were essential for survival, making it a captivating read for those interested in real-life adventures and the spirit of exploration.
ON BOARD OUR BOAT ONE SUMMER WE HAD A BOOK BY Maurice Maeterlinck called The Fourth Dimension, the fourth dimension being Time—which, according to Dunne, doesn’t exist in itself, but is always relativ... Young Sam Carnabie finds himself on a dangerous adventure when he joins siblings Zara and Ben to rescue their great uncle and five other professors from a mad scientist named Murdo. The plot unfolds with secret subterranean railroads, snowmobiles, and submarines transporting the kids to Nordbergen, where they must thwart Murdo's evil plans and save the world. The story is filled with suspense, likable characters, and fast-paced action, making it an engaging read for middle-grade children.
The book combines an old-fashioned feel with modern elements, featuring clever inventions, mysterious settings, and a gripping plot that keeps readers hooked till the end. The writing style is described as entertaining, vivid, and engaging, with b&w drawings enhancing the storytelling. The children in the story are portrayed as intelligent, curious, and brave, making them relatable role models for young readers.
Eleven-year-old Sam Carnabie sat on the edge of his bed and finished packing his favorite things into his small rucksack. Actually, the rucksack itself was one of his favorite things. It was a recent ...- #9
The People We Keep by Allison Larkin follows the journey of April, an abandoned child who grows up believing she is not worth caring about. As she embarks on a life of independence, readers witness her discovery of self-worth and the importance of the people she encounters along the way. Through a rollercoaster of emotions, heartbreak, and joy, the book beautifully weaves together a story of resilience, friendships, and the impact of the individuals we choose to keep in our lives.
April's character is portrayed as a young girl with a deep sense of longing and insecurity, yet filled with resilience and strength. The narrative delves into her experiences of finding hope and joy amidst tough circumstances, showcasing her journey of growth, self-discovery, and the connections she forms with others. The book captures the essence of chosen family, the power of love, and the transformative impact of human connections in shaping one's identity and sense of belonging.
I’m standing at the end of my driveway in the dark, watching Mrs. Varnick’s trailer, waiting for her lights to go out, getting really pissed off. I’ve been watching for at least a week and her lights ... - #10
In "Elephant Run" by Roland Smith, the story is set in Burma during World War II and follows the protagonist Nick as he is sent to live with his father on a teak plantation to escape the bombings in London. However, their peaceful life is disrupted when the Japanese invade Burma, leading to Nick's father being taken prisoner. Nick, along with his friend Mya, plan a daring escape on elephants to rescue Nick's father and Mya's brother from a Japanese POW camp. The book is described as a fast-paced adventure filled with action, suspense, and a unique setting that includes elements of politics, spirituality, and the fascinating world of wild timber elephants.
The writing style of "Elephant Run" is praised for being engaging and well-told, with a good balance between simple young adult reading and a more refined style. The novel effectively bridges world history without bias, presenting a story that is both entertaining and educational about the lesser-known battlefront in Burma during World War II. The characters are described as likable and strong-willed, adding depth to the plot as they navigate through the challenges of war and danger in the jungles of Burma.