The Boys' And Girls' Library / Containing a Variety of Useful and Instructive Reading, Selected from Eminent Writers for Youth

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

35149

Title

The Boys' And Girls' Library / Containing a Variety of Useful and Instructive Reading, Selected from Eminent Writers for Youth

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Peter Parley's *The Boys' and Girls' Library* offers a collection of moral tales, nature studies, and historical sketches designed to instruct and delight young readers. Featuring stories like *The Story of Edward Lyon* and biographies of King Alfred, the book emphasizes virtues such as honesty, self-denial, and obedience. With accessible language and engaging narratives, it serves as an enduring guide for youth seeking both entertainment and ethical development.

Summary up to 500 words

Compiled by the renowned educator Peter Parley, *The Boys' And Girls' Library* serves as a comprehensive anthology of useful and instructive reading for youth. The volume opens with poetic reflections on childhood, capturing the innocence and wonder of early years before transitioning into moral fables designed to shape character. One prominent narrative, *The Story of Edward Lyon*, illustrates the critical importance of confession and forgiveness. In this tale, a boy accidentally damages a friend's toy and strikes him in anger; through his father's guidance, he learns to overcome pride, confess his fault, and restore a friendship. Another moral story, *Self-Denial*, contrasts two brothers where one chooses to buy an orange for his sick mother while the other insists on spending his money on candy, teaching the enduring value of generosity over selfish gratification. Beyond moral instruction, the book integrates scientific observations and historical sketches. It offers detailed explanations of the human body, specifically the three layers of the skin, and explores the physiology of animals like the ostrich and elephant. Historical sections include the life of King Alfred, who learned humility from a herdsman's wife while hiding from Danish invaders, and the story of Grace Middleton, who discovers that knowledge acts as spiritual sustenance. Nature poems personify rivers, brooks, and raindrops to illustrate their vital roles in the water cycle, reinforcing the connection between natural phenomena and moral truth. Throughout the text, themes of duty, humility, and the necessity of preparing for the future—whether through physical labor or mental study—are consistently reinforced. The anthology provides a wholesome educational experience, blending poetry, fable, science, and history to cultivate wisdom in young minds.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/35149.epub.noimages

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data/epubs/pg35149.epub

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2026-07-06 03:33 UTC

Categories

• Fiction