The Conquest of Canaan  (Paperback, Booth Tarkington)

The story centers around the character of Katy Redburn, a young girl who lives with her family in the fictional town of Riverdale. Katy's family is poor, and the novel explores the challenges they face as they strive to maintain their dignity and integrity despite their limited financial means. Katy is characterized as a proud and spirited young girl who is determined to overcome adversity through hard work and moral principles. As with many of Oliver Optic's works, "Poor and Proud" is designed to impart moral lessons and values to young readers. It emphasizes the importance of honesty, perseverance, and the pursuit of education as means to overcome difficult circumstances and achieve success. Throughout the novel, Katy encounters various trials and tribulations, but her unwavering determination and strong moral compass help her navigate the challenges she faces. The story also includes elements of adventure and personal growth as Katy strives to better her situation and prove her worth to her family and community. Oliver Optic's books were popular in their time and were widely read by young audiences. They often combined entertaining narratives with moral instruction, making them valuable reading material for young readers in the 19th century. "Poor and Proud" is an example of his works that continues to be of historical interest and is occasionally studied for its depiction of American values and attitudes in the 19th century.