Horatio Alger's eye-opening tale of a boy's poverty and aspiration in 19th century New York is presented complete in this edition. When it was first published in 1868, Ragged Dick was praised both for its respect to the gritty reality of poverty on the streets of 19th century New York, and for its qualities of characterisation which resonated with readers, particularly young boys. The author Horatio Alger was all too aware of his literary limits, but resolved to publish books which would inspire his readers to lead ...
Read More
Horatio Alger's eye-opening tale of a boy's poverty and aspiration in 19th century New York is presented complete in this edition. When it was first published in 1868, Ragged Dick was praised both for its respect to the gritty reality of poverty on the streets of 19th century New York, and for its qualities of characterisation which resonated with readers, particularly young boys. The author Horatio Alger was all too aware of his literary limits, but resolved to publish books which would inspire his readers to lead morally upstanding and prosperous lives underpinned by honest deeds. We join the titular character, a bootblack aged fourteen years, as he resolves to leave his life of poverty and degradation. Starting with giving up drinking and smoking, our young protagonist keeps his vow to never steal, which impresses some of his gentleman peers who are moved to help his cause. Ragged Dick begins to help at church, and uses his pay to move into his own apartment. An inspirational tale which somewhat mirrors the qualities of the American Dream, Ragged Dick became a lasting favourite of readers and remains widely read to this day.
Read Less
Choose your shipping method in Checkout. Costs may vary based on destination.
Seller's Description:
Very good. Connecting readers with great books since 1972! Used books may not include companion materials, and may have some shelf wear or limited writing. We ship orders daily and Customer Service is our top priority!
Choose your shipping method in Checkout. Costs may vary based on destination.
Seller's Description:
Good. Connecting readers with great books since 1972! Used books may not include companion materials, and may have some shelf wear or limited writing. We ship orders daily and Customer Service is our top priority!
Choose your shipping method in Checkout. Costs may vary based on destination.
Seller's Description:
Very good. Connecting readers with great books since 1972! Used books may not include companion materials, and may have some shelf wear or limited writing. We ship orders daily and Customer Service is our top priority!
Choose your shipping method in Checkout. Costs may vary based on destination.
Seller's Description:
Very good. Connecting readers with great books since 1972! Used books may not include companion materials, and may have some shelf wear or limited writing. We ship orders daily and Customer Service is our top priority!
Choose your shipping method in Checkout. Costs may vary based on destination.
Seller's Description:
Very good. Connecting readers with great books since 1972! Used books may not include companion materials, and may have some shelf wear or limited writing. We ship orders daily and Customer Service is our top priority!
This sweet tale of a poor but honest bootblack, Dick, and his relentless pursuit of "respectability" is the first of several books that Horatio Alger wrote in his attempt to prove that all boys - regardless of class - can rise in the world if they are honest, kind and hard-working. Dick's realization of this fact, along with the help of several great allies, and his earnest efforts to better himself make for an enjoyable read. Although the book's moralistic tone might seem simplistic and inappropriate for today's youth, I would have to say that it's the kind of book that kids today NEED to read. This is the kind of story that we have too easily forgotten and the kind of lesson that everyone should learn again. Because the book really isn't "preachy," and because the characters are portrayed realistically and not as angelic, it's a believable story and a quick, charming read.
