The Robber by Annie Fellows Johnston

Name: The Robber
Author: Annie Fellows Johnston

A young boy named Johnny is the robber of the title. He lives with his mother in a small Kentucky town during the Great Depression. Johnny's mother works hard to provide for him, but they are struggling to make ends meet. One day, Johnny decides to take matters into his own hands and steals food from a local store. When he is caught, he is forced to confront the consequences of his actions and learn the value of honesty and hard work.

By Annie Fellows Johnston · First published 1907 · Genre: Children's Literature, Adventure, Historical Fiction · 156 words

First lines

DO you know why Time flies by so slow When we are sad and old? Why he turns and waits as if loath to go On his journey cold? Because from our coffers of hope and youth, Where we kept life's gold, He has stolen our treasures all, in sooth, From their sacred hold.

He who came with a gift in hand Was a robber bold.

He whose greeting was smooth and bland Was a wolf in the fold.

And this is the reason that he goes by, When we're worn and old, So slowly, because he can scarcely fly With his weight of gold.

What this Textopian page supports

The Robber is listed on Textopian as a short story by Annie Fellows Johnston, dated 1907 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Short story
Author: Annie Fellows Johnston
Date: 1907 CE
Language: English
Genres: Children's Literature, Adventure, Historical Fiction
Length: 156 words
Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)

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Discussion starters

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Genres

Children's Literature — The book is written by a well-known author of children's literature and follows story themes that are accessible and educative for young readers.
Adventure — The story revolves around a character's journey and experiences, indicating elements of the Adventure genre.
Historical Fiction — The book's plot occurs in a past period, integrating realistic settings from that period, indicating an element of Historical Fiction.