Frank and Fearless; or, The Fortunes of Jasper Kent

Horatio Alger books... These are «rags-to-riches» stories, its’ heroes rise from poverty to wealth, they are patient, smart and determined to their white collar work. They know that hard work is the only key to success. However, it’s not all about hardworking. Only random acts of courage let the poor boys to find a benefactor who will bring them to better life. The author was as widely read as Mark Twain. Some people even call him the father of the American Dream. Yes, that’s Horatio Alger. Horatio Alger was born in 1832 in Chelsea, Massachusetts. The son of a minister, Alger went to Harvard. Thirty-four year-old, he moved to New York and started assisting the homeless boys. His stories are full of compassion for street urchins, for abandoned children in New York City. “Frank and Fearless; or, The Fortunes of Jasper Kent” is a great example of realistic «rags-to-riches» stories. In this novel, the author tells us a story about a boy whose parents die and how his heritage is about to be collected by his mean stepmother. Alger depicts the inner life, feelings and emotions of gutter-children in big cities. The plot is very simple; sure, it is a kid's story. However, it gives us a useful lesson about life. The purpose of this novel is to excite a deep sympathy in the public mind, as well as to influence upon outcasts. The author sets inspiring examples of what they can achieve using their energy, ambitions, frugality and self-discipline. Read the story till the end to see how it all ended.