The Young Oarsmen of Lakeview

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

26218

Title

The Young Oarsmen of Lakeview

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

In midsummer Lakeview, three friends—Jerry Upton, Harry Parker, and Blumpo Brown—navigate rowing races, farm duties, and a mysterious California land inheritance. When Jerry's father is injured, the boy travels to New York to investigate his uncle's estate, encountering city dangers and meeting Nellie Ardell. A tale of bravery, friendship, and adventure.

Summary up to 500 words

On a sunny June day at Lakeview, Jerry Upton and Harry Parker engage in a spirited single-shell rowing race. Their competition is abruptly halted when Blumpo Brown, a homeless but capable youth, falls into the water from a broken float. The friends immediately stop their race to rescue him, cementing their bond and forming a trio determined to enjoy the summer holidays. They plan a camping trip, but the adventure takes a dramatic turn when Jerry's father is kicked by a horse, fracturing his ribs. While the family recovers, Jerry discovers that his late uncle, Charley, left him property in California. Determined to investigate the claim, Jerry travels alone to New York City. Arriving in the chaotic metropolis, Jerry faces the stark contrast between rural simplicity and urban complexity. He struggles to find affordable lodging, eventually finding a kind hostess who directs him to a suitable boarding house. His journey is interrupted by a heroic act: a baby carriage rolls into the street, and an ice-wagon approaches at a furious speed. Jerry leaps into the path of the runaway horse, saving a child named Tommy and earning the admiration of Nellie Ardell, a young woman who lost her mother to consumption. This act of bravery defines his character in the city. Back at home, the friends prepare for a major boat race against Silas Peters, a formidable oarsman from the lower side of the lake. Despite the tension and the cheering crowds, Jerry wins the race, delighting his community and proving his skill. However, his New York journey continues with further complications involving Alexander Slocum, a mysterious real estate agent holding the deeds to the California land. The narrative weaves themes of courage, loyalty, and the importance of helping others regardless of social status. The story culminates in Jerry's successful resolution of his family's legal and personal challenges. He navigates the dangers of the city, overcomes the skepticism of strangers, and stands by his friends. The tale concludes with a celebration of the young oarsmen's virtues, highlighting how Jerry's journey to the big city not only secured his inheritance but also tested and strengthened his moral character. Through his adventures, Jerry emerges as a true hero, bridging the gap between his humble farm roots and the complexities of the wider world.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Local file path

data/epubs/pg26218.epub

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Categories

• Juvenile Fiction
• Boats and boating