Harry's Reward

Name: Harry's Reward
Author: Mary Louisa Molesworth

The narrative follows a young boy named Harry, who initially despises the sea and is resistant to learning how to swim, unlike his sister Dora, who longs to enjoy the water but is unable to due to health issues. Their father, a firm yet kind figure, insists that Harry learn to swim during their seaside holiday, emphasizing its importance for safety and self-reliance. Despite his fears, Harry gradually overcomes his trepidation and learns to swim well under his father's guidance. As the story progresses, Harry's newfound skill becomes crucial when he encounters a dire situation. A girl named Alice, whose sister is drowning, drives a pony carriage frantically seeking help. Harry, realizing he can swim, rushes to the beach, strips off his clothes, and plunges into the water to save Alice. He bravely swims out to her, who is struggling against the current, and manages to pull her back to safety just before help arrives. Harry's courageous act earns him admiration and gratitude from the sisters and their family, marking a significant moment of personal growth and recognition for him. The experience transforms his perception of swimming from a dreaded task to a life-saving skill, reinforcing the story's theme of bravery and the rewards of overcoming one's fears. The siblings continue to visit the seaside, where Harry's heroism is celebrated, and he forms a bond with Alice and Lilian, highlighting the lasting impact of his actions.

By Mary Louisa Molesworth · First published 1890 · Genre: Children's Literature, Adventure, Family · 1,824 words

First lines

"I hate the sea, I hate bathing, and I don't want to learn to swim. What's the use of learning to swim? I'm not going to be a sailor. I don't like ships, and I don't want ever to go in one, and I just wish, oh, I do wish papa hadn't come here!"

"Harry! how can you? " said his sister Dora. "Papa who is so kind, and when we have all been looking forward so to his coming."

What this Textopian page supports

Harry's Reward is listed on Textopian as a short story by Mary Louisa Molesworth, dated 1890 CE.

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

Work type: Short story
Author: Mary Louisa Molesworth
Date: 1890 CE
Language: English
Genres: Children's Literature, Adventure, Family, Coming-of-Age, Realistic Fiction
Length: 1,824 words
Structure: 1 section, 28 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Work identity for Harry's Reward by Mary Louisa Molesworth
Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters

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Similar titles

Genres

Children's Literature — The story is aimed at a young audience, featuring child protagonists and themes of growth and bravery.
Adventure — The plot involves a dramatic rescue and the protagonist's journey to overcome his fears.
Family — The narrative centers around family dynamics, particularly the relationship between Harry and his parents and sister.
Coming-of-Age — Harry's experiences reflect his personal growth and maturation through overcoming challenges.