Showing results by author "James Otis" in All Categories

Twelve-year-old Peter Hulbert is left an orphan in Leyden, Holland, as the rest of the Pilgrims sail for the New World. A merchant of the West India Company takes him to New Amsterdam as his servant. Here Peter's adventures begin in this historically accurate tale of life in old New York.

Dive into the captivating world of the Virginia Colony through the eyes of a young boy named Richard Mutton in Richard of Jamestown by James Otis. This engaging tale is crafted specifically for children, offering a vivid glimpse into the daily life and adventures of the early colonists. Join Richard as he navigates the challenges and joys of colonial life, making this story both educational and entertaining. (summary by Laura Caldwell)

There have been a lot of fascinating periods in the history of the United States, but the period of the pioneers is particularly captivating. To live in a time when there was still so much unknown to explore, the adventures these men and women had, and the things they saw for the first time must have been like living a bit like Alice in Wonderland. Sometimes it was beautiful, sometimes it was horrifying, but always full of wonder.

Young Toby runs away to join the circus, but life under the big top isn’t as magical as he imagined. This heartwarming classic explores hardship, conscience, and finding one's way.

Embark on an extraordinary journey aboard the U.S.S. Essex, a thirty-two-gun frigate helmed by the daring Captain David Porter. This captivating tale chronicles the Essexs legendary cruise through the southern waters during the tumultuous War of 1812. As the only sizable government vessel upholding the honor of the American Navy, the Essex ventured far from home, traversing a distance equal to over a third of the globe. Join us as we recount one of the most remarkable maritime adventures in history. Please note the text contains several instances of a derogatory racial term. - Summary by Barry...

This is the compelling and historically accurate story Richard of Jamestown, by the incredible 19th-century author James Otis. The tale is told from the perspective of 10-year-old Richard Mutton, who actually did sail with Captain John Smith on the Susan B. Constant to found the Jamestown colony.

During the American Revolution, 15-year-old Louis Nelson and 10-year-old Paul Sampson join famed frontier scout Simon Kenton in the advance section of Major George Rogers Clark force crossing the Ohio River to take the British Forts of Kaskaskia, Cahokia, and Vincennes. Danger awaits them as they go deep into enemy territory while war drums ring through the forest.

Who hasn't dreamed of running away to a more exciting life? Toby Tyler is one boy who did just that, spending 10 weeks working for the circus as it toured New England in the 1870s. But was this great adventure everything he dreamed it would be? Toby Tyler or, Ten Weeks with a Circus is a classic story beloved by generation after generation of children. Author James Otis Kaler actually traveled with the Phineas T. Barnum Circus as a young reporter, and he used his firsthand knowledge to acquaint children with the behind-the-scenes details of what the circus is really like, while introducing the unforgettable character of Toby Tyler.

Classic story of a little orphan boy who runs away to join the circus, only to learn that his new employer is a cruel taskmaster. A story that will tug on the heartstrings of listeners of all ages as they enter the world of an old-time traveling circus.

Young Toby Tyler runs away to join a circus where he is cruelly treated by his bosses. But the kindness of the Skeleton Man, the Fat Lady, Old Ben, and Mr. Stubbs, his monkey friend, helps him to adjust to his surroundings and leads him to success in the ring as a performing rider.

Step into the shoes of 12-year-old Ruth as she journeys from London to the Massachusetts Bay Colony in James Otiss captivating tale. Through the eyes of a young girl, this story vividly illustrates the daily challenges and adventures faced by children in the early days of colonial life. Join Ruth on her exploration of a new world, where every day brings new discoveries and experiences. (Summary by Laura Caldwell)