Horatio Alger Jr.
Horatio Alger Jr. was a prolific 19th-century American author known for his young adult novels about impoverished boys who achieve middle-class security through hard work, determination, courage, and honesty. His works were characterized by the 'rags-to-riches' narrative and have had a lasting impact on American culture.
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
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1. Mark, The Match Boy
or Richard Hunter's Ward
The novel follows the story of a young orphan boy named Mark, who survives the harsh streets of New York City by selling matches. Despite his unfortunate circumstances, Mark's hard work, honesty, and determination exemplify the classic rags-to-riches theme. With the help of a kind benefactor, Mark's life takes a turn for the better, showcasing the idea that virtue and perseverance can lead to success and upward social mobility, which is a central tenet of the author's belief in the American Dream.
The 6757th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
2. Ragged Dick
Street Life in New York with the Boot Blacks
A poor but honest New York bootblack uses industry, thrift, and integrity to better his lot: aided by sympathetic benefactors, he learns to read, save, and resist bad influences, secures steady work in a counting-house, and through perseverance and good character rises from street urchin to respectable young man.
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