
In the bustling little town of Rockford, the daily arrival of the train awakens the imagination of its residents, especially the boys who gather at the station to watch the whistling locomotive disappear into the horizon. At the heart of this world is Ward Hill, a senior at the local school, whose friendships and rivalries echo the larger struggles of growing up. Through the lens of his classroom and the surrounding town, the story captures the hopes, doubts, and small triumphs that shape a young man’s character.
The narrative treats the school as a miniature society, where every lesson learned and mistake made carries the weight of future success or failure. As Ward navigates the pressures of leadership, loyalty, and personal ambition, his experiences offer both cautionary tales and inspiring examples for readers. The first act sets the stage for a vivid portrait of adolescence, inviting listeners to reflect on the enduring impact of those formative years.
Language
en
Duration
~6 hours (391K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Release date
2016-07-21
Rights
Public domain in the USA.
Subjects
1859–1931
Best known for lively historical adventures for young readers, this American writer turned the past into fast-moving stories packed with travel, patriotism, and action. His books often introduced children to American history through memorable heroes and real events.
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