Paul and the Printing Press

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

27834

Title

Paul and the Printing Press

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

In this engaging historical fiction, Paul Cameron, a high school student, dreams of launching a monthly school paper. With his father's guidance and the help of friends, he navigates the challenges of fundraising, printing, and editorial work. Blending humor, adventure, and lessons in business ethics, the story captures the spirit of early 20th-century youth and the transformative power of the printing press.

Summary up to 500 words

In Sara Ware Bassett's *Paul and the Printing Press*, the narrative follows Paul Cameron, the ambitious president of the Class of 1920 at Burmingham High, as he strives to create a lasting legacy for his graduating class. Inspired by the idea that a school newspaper could record the unique achievements of his peers, Paul proposes the creation of a monthly publication titled *The March Hare*. Despite his father's warnings regarding the prohibitive cost of owning a printing press and the logistical challenges of running a business while attending school, Paul, along with his friends Melville Carter and Donald, decides to proceed. They adopt a mysterious marketing strategy, selling subscriptions before the paper even exists, driven by the belief that their enthusiasm will overcome financial skepticism. The story delves into the boys' management of the publication, highlighting themes of integrity and the value of education. A significant crisis arises when the accounts reveal a missing hundred-dollar bill, leaving the paper in debt. Through honesty and hard work, the boys resolve the situation. It is revealed that Donald had accidentally lost the money in his pocket lining but had secretly returned it to the school treasury to cover the deficit, while Paul and Melville had also contributed their own savings. This episode teaches them valuable lessons about responsibility and the importance of admitting mistakes. As graduation approaches, the narrative resolves a long-standing conflict between Paul's father and Mr. Carter, the publisher of the rival *Echo* newspaper. During a tense encounter at the graduation ceremony, Mr. Carter offers a sincere apology for past political indiscretions, acknowledging that an honor won by foul means is empty. Mr. Cameron graciously accepts the apology, symbolizing the restoration of community harmony. The novel concludes with a celebratory graduation banquet featuring an elaborate stuffed rabbit centerpiece, the 'March Hare.' As the Class of 1920 bids farewell to their schoolmates and teachers, the story underscores the enduring bonds of friendship and the successful legacy of their journalistic venture. The boys reflect on their experiences, having proven that with integrity and determination, they could achieve something remarkable despite initial obstacles.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/27834.epub.noimages

Local file path

data/epubs/pg27834.epub

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Categories

• Juvenile literature
• Printing