Anecdotes for boys

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

25540

Title

Anecdotes for boys

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Harvey Newcomb's "Anecdotes for Boys" offers entertaining narratives designed to instruct young readers in moral principles and character formation. Drawing on historical figures like George Washington and Benedict Arnold, the book argues that a boy's early habits and religious foundation determine his future manhood, urging readers to avoid bad company and embrace industry and piety.

Summary up to 500 words

Harvey Newcomb's "Anecdotes for Boys" presents a collection of entertaining narratives and anecdotes intended to illustrate moral principles and shape character in young men. The work is structured around the central thesis that "show me the boy, and I will show you the man," emphasizing that early habits, religious conviction, and filial piety are the cornerstones of a virtuous adult life. The book opens with biographical sketches of historical figures to demonstrate this principle. Benedict Arnold serves as a cautionary tale of a boy with a malicious disposition and lack of conscience who grew into a traitor. In contrast, George Washington is celebrated for his early integrity, exemplified by his refusal to lie about breaking his father's cherry tree, and his deep filial love that caused him to abandon a naval voyage to comfort his grieving mother. Other notable figures include Governor Ritner, whose greatness was attributed to his consistent goodness as a boy, and Roger Sherman, whose self-education and strict adherence to biblical principles made him a wise and incorruptible statesman. Newcomb dedicates significant space to the dangers of "bad company" and "bad habits." He recounts the story of Mr. Green, a reformed gambler who fell into vice after associating with a rough set of boys, losing his money, and ending up in jail. The text strongly warns against profanity, gaming, and intemperance, noting that General Washington strictly forbade swearing in his army. Newcomb also addresses the peril of playing truant, illustrating how skipping school leads boys into thieving gangs. A particularly poignant story involves the son of a deacon who, after falling into bad company in the city, steals and is imprisoned. Despite his father's desire for his return, the son is too ashamed to face him, highlighting the difficulty of reformation without a firm religious foundation. The book further explores the importance of the Sabbath, recounting stories of sailors and workers who refused to work on the Lord's day, only to escape disasters that befell those who did. Newcomb also emphasizes the uncertainty of life through the sudden deaths of both an impenitent sinner, who died before he could repent, and a Christian brakeman, who faced death with calm faith and comforted his family. Throughout, the text urges early conversion and warns against delaying spiritual growth, citing the regret of many in their later years. Ultimately, "Anecdotes for Boys" is a didactic work that blends historical biography with moral instruction. It appeals to the rising generation by showing that true greatness, wisdom, and happiness are the fruits of a life built on the principles of God's word, industry, and respect for parents.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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data/epubs/pg25540.epub

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2026-07-06 01:20 UTC

Categories

• Conduct of Life
• Boys