Stem to Stern by Oliver Optic (1869)

Name: Stem to Stern
Author: Oliver Optic

The narrative follows the lives of the Bristol family, particularly focusing on Lily and Paul, who struggle with poverty after their father, Peter Bristol, leaves to seek better fortunes and does not return for two years. The family lives in a cottage at Sandy Point, which is owned by Major Billcord, a wealthy but obstinate man who once attempted to run a hotel that failed. The story begins with Lily, a beautiful and assertive young woman, who resists the advances of Walk Billcord, the major's son, leading to a confrontation that escalates into violence. Paul, Lily's brother, intervenes when Walk attempts to force Lily into a boat, resulting in a physical altercation where Paul defends his sister. This confrontation leads to Paul being outnumbered and captured by Walk and his friends, who are determined to punish him for his defiance. The major, enraged by the incident, plans to have Paul punished for the perceived insult to his son. As the story unfolds, the Beech Hill Industrial School students, led by Dory Dornwood, come to the aid of the Bristols. They devise a plan to move the Bristol cottage to protect it from Major Billcord's threats. The students successfully relocate the cottage in a daring nighttime operation, showcasing their resourcefulness and teamwork. The narrative culminates in a confrontation between the Beech Hill students and the Chesterfield students, led by Major Billcord. The major's attempts to assert his authority and punish Paul are thwarted by the intervention of Captain Gildrock, the principal of the Beech Hill School, who stands up for Paul and the Bristols. The story highlights themes of class struggle, justice, and the importance of community support in the face of adversity. Ultimately, the Bristols find a new home, and Paul is offered a position at the Beech Hill School, where he can learn a trade and support his family. The resolution emphasizes the triumph of friendship and solidarity over bullying and oppression, as the students unite to protect one of their own against the injustices imposed by the wealthy.

By Oliver Optic · First published 1869 · Genre: Adventure, Young Adult, Fiction · 30 chapters · 74,100 words

First lines

"I don't want anybody to row for me, Mr. Walker; I came out to take a little exercise, and I can do it best when I am all alone," said Miss Lily Bristol to a young gentleman of about eighteen who stood on the sandy beach.

"But it will be a good deal more sociable to have company," replied Walk Billcord with a smile and a smirk.

What this Textopian page supports

Stem to Stern is listed on Textopian as a novel by Oliver Optic, dated 1869 CE.

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

Work type: Novel
Author: Oliver Optic
Date: 1869 CE
Language: English
Genres: Adventure, Young Adult, Fiction, Maritime, Coming-of-Age
Length: 74,100 words
Structure: 30 chapters, 1,385 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Similar titles

Genres

Adventure — The plot involves exploration and challenges faced by characters, typical of adventure narratives.
Young Adult — The themes and characters are geared towards a younger audience, focusing on growth and discovery.
Fiction — The story is a work of fiction, presenting imaginative scenarios and characters.
Maritime — The setting and plot revolve around nautical themes and life at sea.