The narrative follows Ernest Thornton, a fourteen-year-old boy attending the Parkville Liberal Institute, who faces injustice and bullying from both his peers and the school's principal, Mr. Parasyte. The story begins with Ernest being accused of fighting with a wealthy student, Bill Poodles, after defending himself from an unprovoked attack. Despite his innocence, Mr. Parasyte expels him, favoring Poodles due to his family's influence. Ernest lives with his uncle, Amos Thornton, a reclusive and uncommunicative man who provides for him but shows little affection or interest in his life. Ernest longs for companionship and knowledge about his parents, but his uncle remains tight-lipped about his past. The tension escalates when Ernest refuses to apologize to Poodles, leading to a confrontation with Mr. Parasyte, who attempts to physically punish him. In a moment of defiance, Ernest fights back, knocking the principal down, which further complicates his situation. As a result of the incident, a rebellion brews among the students, who rally behind Ernest, feeling that Mr. Parasyte's actions are unjust. They decide to "break away" from the school, camping on Cleaver Island to assert their independence. The students, led by Henry Vallington, organize themselves and prepare for potential conflict with Mr. Parasyte, who is determined to reassert his authority. The narrative explores themes of justice, friendship, and the struggle against tyranny. As the students navigate their rebellion, they face challenges, including the betrayal of some classmates who return to Mr. Parasyte's side. The story culminates in a confrontation between the students and the principal, highlighting the complexities of authority, loyalty, and the quest for fairness. Throughout the tale, Ernest grapples with his identity, the absence of his parents, and the harsh realities of growing up in a world where power dynamics often overshadow truth and justice. The resolution of the conflict remains uncertain, leaving readers to ponder the implications of rebellion and the fight for one's rights in the face of oppression.
By Oliver Optic · First published 1873 · Genre: Adventure, Young Adult, Coming-of-Age · 26 chapters