
audiobook
by Oliver Optic
In the modest town of Redfield, a shy but spirited boy named Harry West spends his days gathering windfalls beneath the apple trees of the poorhouse. One bright morning, the town’s self‑important Squire Walker, a man who prides himself on authority, summons Harry for a purpose that remains a mystery to the reader. The encounter sets the stage for a clash of personalities: the squire’s lofty ambitions meet Harry’s humble perseverance.
As Harry navigates the squire’s demands, he discovers that even small acts of courage can ripple outward, affecting both his own reputation and the lives of those around him. The narrative follows his attempts to rise above his circumstances, learning the value of honesty, hard work, and the willingness to try again after each setback. Young listeners will find a lively portrait of early‑20th‑century New England life, peppered with humor and the timeless challenges of growing up.
Language
en
Duration
~4 hours (264K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Release date
2010-01-24
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1822–1897
A 19th-century American storyteller and educator, he wrote lively adventure books for young readers under the pen name Oliver Optic. His tales of ships, schools, and moral choices made him one of the best-known juvenile authors of his era.
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