Try and Trust; or, Abner Holden’s Bound Boy is a classic rags-to-respect story from Horatio Alger, Jr., the master of inspirational fiction. The novel follows Herbert Mason, a brave and honest orphan forced into servitude under the cruel Abner Holden.
Despite hardships, Herbert relies on hard work, courage, and trust in himself to rise above his circumstances. This morally uplifting tale is filled with challenges, chance encounters, and life-changing opportunities. A perfect read for fans of timeless stories where determination and integrity lead to success.
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About the Author
Horatio Alger, Jr. (1832–1899) was a prolific 19th-century American author best known for his young adult novels promoting the “rags to riches” theme. His books typically featured brave boys overcoming poverty through honesty, diligence, and good fortune. Alger’s work became symbolic of the American Dream, inspiring generations of readers to believe in merit, virtue, and opportunity.
Book Background
Published in 1872, Try and Trust stands among Horatio Alger’s many inspirational stories. Like his most famous work Ragged Dick, this novel delivers a clear moral message: trust yourself and work hard, and you’ll overcome any hardship. The book reflects the social attitudes of its time and offers valuable insights into 19th-century values, especially the ideals of self-reliance and perseverance.
Why Read This Book?
- A motivational tale of personal growth and justice
- Timeless themes of honesty, courage, and resilience
- A classic representation of the American Dream in literature
- Great for students, history enthusiasts, and fans of vintage moral fiction
Whether you’re revisiting classic literature or exploring it for the first time, Try and Trust remains an enduring source of inspiration.
Source and License
This book is in the public domain. You can freely read or download Try and Trust from Project Gutenberg and similar public domain archives.