The Trippertrots and the Fireman

Name: The Trippertrots and the Fireman
Author: Howard R. Garis

The Trippertrot children, Mary, Tommy, and Johnny, are left at home by their mother, who instructs them to stay indoors while she visits Aunt Mary Jane. Despite their initial attempts to entertain themselves with toys and picture books, they quickly grow bored. Mary suggests building a fire in the open grate to watch the flames, which Suzette, their helper, obliges by creating a large blaze. Unexpectedly, a fireman arrives, alerting them that their chimney is on fire due to the excessive wood burning. He requests salt to extinguish the fire, which Mary fetches. Before the fireman puts out the blaze, the children ask to see the fire spouting from the chimney, which he allows. After witnessing the spectacle, they return inside, and the fireman departs, having completed his task. Realizing they forgot to thank the fireman, Tommy and Johnny decide to chase after him, with Mary reluctantly joining. They venture to the fire-house, guided by a passerby, to express their gratitude. Upon arrival, they learn from the fire captain that the fireman, George, is not yet back from his lunch break. The captain invites them to wait, and the children, fascinated by the firehouse, agree. While waiting, the firehouse bell rings, signaling an emergency. The firemen, along with the horses and engine, rush out, leaving the Trippertrot children alone. The story captures the children's adventurous spirit and their knack for finding themselves in extraordinary situations, despite their mother's instructions to stay put.

By Howard R. Garis · First published 1918 · Genre: Children's Literature, Adventure, Humor · 2,189 words

First lines

A few days after the Trippertrot children got home, following their adventure with the little old man, their mamma said to them:

"Now, children, I am going over to see your Aunt Mary Jane, and I want you to stay in the house until I get back. It is rather chilly out of doors, and it looks as if it might rain. So stay in, play with your toys, or look at your picture books, but don't go out."

What this Textopian page supports

The Trippertrots and the Fireman is listed on Textopian as a short story by Howard R. Garis, dated 1918 CE.

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

Work type: Short story
Author: Howard R. Garis
Date: 1918 CE
Language: English
Genres: Children's Literature, Adventure, Humor, Fantasy, Realistic Fiction
Length: 2,189 words
Structure: 1 section, 62 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Discussion starters

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Genres

Children's Literature — The narrative is crafted specifically for young readers with simple language, playful characters, and moral themes.
Adventure — The plot centers on the children's journey and exploration as they set out to thank the fireman, creating a sense of adventure.
Humor — Witty dialogue, absurd situations, and playful misunderstandings throughout the text contribute to its comedic tone.
Fantasy — The imaginative elements and exaggerated scenarios, such as a chimney ablaze leading to an unexpected visit, inject a subtle fantastical quality into the story.