Ragged Dick

Horatio Alger Jr. (1832-1899) authored over 100 adventure books, many focusing on a poor boy's struggle to overcome poverty and adversity. Alger's books are fast-paced "page-turners" that have enjoyed immense popularity while advocating generosity, honesty, industry, thrift, temperance, education, and bravery. Alger was born near Boston, attended Harvard, and moved to New York City in 1866. He is one of America's all-time, best-selling fiction authors. Ragged Dick details the adventures of Richard Hunter, a homeless boy who earns a living shining shoes on the streets of Manhattan in the mid 1800s. Inspired by a customer he meets, Dick resolves to improve his situation, finds a roommate who can act as his tutor, and overcomes adversity with wit and good cheer. First published in book form in 1866, Ragged Dick was Alger's first great publishing success.Public Domain (P)2011 Aspen Leaf Media