Publisher's Synopsis
Rough and Ready or Life Among the New York Newsboys is a novel written by Horatio Alger Jr. The book tells the story of a young boy named Ben Russell, who becomes a newsboy in New York City after his father dies. The story follows Ben's struggles as he tries to make a living selling newspapers on the streets of New York. Along the way, he meets other newsboys who become his friends and allies, and together they face challenges such as rival gangs, corrupt police officers, and unfair competition. Through his experiences, Ben learns the value of hard work, honesty, and loyalty. The book is a classic example of the ""rags to riches"" theme that is often found in Alger's works, and it provides readers with a glimpse into the life of working-class children in New York City during the late 19th century.1869. 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. This is the fourth volume of his Ragged Dick Series. Alger writes in the Preface: Its second title, Life Among the New York Newsboys describes its character and purpose. While the young hero may be regarded as a favorable example of his class, the circumstances of his lot, aggravated by the persecutions of an intemperate parent, are unfortunately too common, as any one at all familiar with the history of the neglected street children in our cities will readily acknowledge. If Rough and Ready has more virtues and fewer faults than most of his class, his history will at least teach the valuable lesson that honesty and good principles are not incompatible even with the greatest social disadvantages, and will, it is hoped, serve as an incentive and stimulus to the young people who may read it. See other titles by this author available from Kessinger Publishing.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.
