Ragged Dick

Horatio Alger's eye-opening tale of a boy's poverty and aspiration in late 19th century New York is presented here.
When it was first published in 1868, Ragged Dick was praised both for its respect to the gritty reality of poverty on the streets of 19th century New York, and for its qualities of characterisation which resonated with readers, particularly young boys. The author Horatio Alger was all too aware of his literary limits, but resolved to publish books which would inspire his readers to lead morally upstanding and prosperous lives underpinned by honest deeds.

We join the titular character, a bootblack aged fourteen years, as he resolves to leave his life of poverty and degradation. Starting with giving up drinking and smoking, our young protagonist keeps his vow to never steal, which impresses some of his gentleman peers who are moved to help his cause. Ragged Dick begins to help at church, and uses his pay to move into his own apartment.