Ringworm Frank
The story revolves around a young boy who contracts ringworm and becomes an outcast among his peers. He struggles with feelings of isolation and loneliness, but ultimately finds acceptance and friendship in unexpected places. The narrative explores themes of identity, community, and the complexities of human relationships.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1887 · Genre: Poetry, Humor, Regional · 233 words
First lines
Jest Frank Reed's his _real_ name-though Boys all calls him "Ringworm Frank," 'Cause he allus _runs round_ so. - No man can't tell where to bank _Frank_'ll be, Next you see Er _hear_ of him! -Drat his melts! - That man's allus _somers else_!
We're old pards. -But Frank he jest _Can't_ stay still! -Wuz _prosper'n'_ here, But lit out on furder West Somers on a ranch, last year: Never heard Nary a word _How_ he liked it, tel to-day, Got this card, reads thisaway: -
What this Textopian page supports
Ringworm Frank is listed on Textopian as a short story by James Whitcomb Riley, dated 1887 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: James Whitcomb Riley
- Date: 1887 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Humor, Regional, Character Study
- Length: 233 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Ringworm Frank by James Whitcomb Riley
- 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
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Ringworm Frank?
- How does this short story by James Whitcomb Riley fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Humor — The playful language and humorous depiction of the character's restlessness contribute to a comedic tone.
- Regional — The use of dialect and references to specific locations suggest a focus on regional culture.
- Character Study — The narrative centers around the character of Frank, exploring his personality and actions.
Tags
Children's Literature · Poetry Collection · American Literature · 19th Century Literature · Humorous Fiction · Satirical Fiction · Social Commentary · Rural Setting · Coming of Age · Friendship · Growing Up · Self-Discovery