1903. Alger is the original rags-to-riches guy, often credited with inventing the strive-and-succeed spirit that inspired boys to work hard and advance themselves in order to achieve the American Dream. This theme resonates throughout his numerous writings. In this book Alger tells the tale of Bernard Brooks, a fifteen year old orphan, who is sent to Ezekiel Snowdon's rural boarding school by his New York guardian, Cornelius McCracken, who has secretly appropriated money from the young man. To escape being beaten Bernard runs away from the school. After leaving the school he meets many characters along his travels who he helps with their troubles. Bernard attempts a reconciliation with his guardian, but is rebuffed. Now he must overcome the obstacles thrown in his path by his guardian and others to reclaim what is rightly his. See other titles by this author available from Kessinger Publishing.