Tom's Persuasions by Catharine Shaw
The story revolves around a family grappling with change and uncertainty, focusing on Aunt Ruth, who faces financial difficulties after her father's death. The narrative begins with Jean expressing sadness about leaving a pleasant place by the sea, while Aunt Ruth contemplates her future. Tom, Jean, Rose, and Oswald, the children, express their hope that Aunt Ruth will come to live with them, as their mother is unwell and could use her support. Aunt Ruth is touched by their affection and reveals her financial struggles, explaining that her father's investments failed, leaving her without sufficient income. Despite her hardships, she maintains her faith, believing that God will guide her to the right home. Tom, in particular, offers comfort by reminding her of God's promises, quoting scripture to reassure her. The children express their desire for Aunt Ruth to stay with them, emphasizing the mutual benefit of her presence. Aunt Ruth is moved by their sincerity and eventually agrees to live with them, finding solace in their love and the belief that God cares for her. The story highlights themes of family, faith, and the power of persuasion through love and assurance.
By Catharine Shaw · First published 1883 · Genre: Family Drama, Christian Fiction, Coming-of-Age · 1,177 words
First lines
"WE are going home to-morrow! " said Jean, with a sigh. "Auntie, are you not very sorry? Now, confess!"
"Very sorry to leave this nice place, and the sea, but not to be going home."
What this Textopian page supports
Tom's Persuasions is listed on Textopian as a short story by Catharine Shaw, dated 1883 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Catharine Shaw
- Date: 1883 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Family Drama, Christian Fiction, Coming-of-Age, Inspirational Fiction, Literary Fiction
- Length: 1,177 words
- Structure: 1 section, 42 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Tom's Persuasions by Catharine Shaw
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Genres
- Family Drama — The narrative centers on complex familial relationships and intergenerational dynamics, with persuasion among family members driving the plot.
- Christian Fiction — The text includes explicit references to religious faith and divine assurance, integrating theological themes with everyday struggles.
- Coming-of-Age — Young characters face significant decisions and moral challenges, highlighting their personal growth and the transition from childhood to maturity.
- Inspirational Fiction — The work conveys messages of hope, resilience, and spiritual renewal in the face of life's hardships.
Tags
persuasion · influence · negotiation · rhetoric · manipulation · power · communication · decision-making · psychological · strategy · leadership · conflict