Victorian poets and no gym apparatus

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's "The Courtship of Miles Standish" is a narrative poem set in the early years of the Plymouth Colony. The poem tells the story of Captain Miles Standish, a brave but shy military leader, who asks his friend John Alden to propose to Priscilla Mullins on his behalf. Priscilla, however, surprises both men by declaring, "Why don't you speak for yourself, John? " The poem explores themes of love, friendship, and the challenges faced by the early American settlers. It offers a romanticized portrayal of historical events and figures, blending humor with the hardships of colonial life. Longfellow's work remains a classic example of American romantic poetry, celebrated for its vivid imagery and engaging storytelling.

Jo's Boys continues the story of the March family, focusing on Jo Bhaer and her husband Fritz as they run Plumfield, a school for boys. The novel explores the challenges and joys of raising and educating young men, each with their unique personalities and aspirations. As the boys grow into adulthood, they face various trials, including love, loss, and career decisions. The book emphasizes the importance of character development, moral values, and the lasting impact of a nurturing environment. Through the lives of these young men, Alcott examines themes of education, family, and the pursuit of individual dreams. It celebrates the enduring bonds of friendship and the ongoing influence of Jo's unconventional approach to education.

The story follows five children - Cyril, Anthea, Robert, Jane, and their baby brother, the Lamb - who move from London to the countryside of Kent. While playing in a gravel pit, they find a Psammead, a grumpy and magical sand-fairy that can grant wishes. Each day, the Psammead grants one wish that lasts until sunset, but these wishes often go comically wrong, leading the children into various troubles and moral dilemmas. The children must use their ingenuity and problem-solving skills to resolve the issues caused by their wishes, learning valuable lessons along the way.

The novel follows Robinson Crusoe, a young and impulsive Englishman, who ignores his parents' advice and sets out to sea. After a series of misadventures, including being captured by pirates and sold into slavery, he is eventually shipwrecked on a deserted island near the coast of Venezuela. There, he spends 28 years surviving against incredible odds, encountering cannibals, captives, and mutineers. The story is influenced by real-life castaways such as Alexander Selkirk and blends elements of Puritan spiritual autobiography, travel literature, and adventure stories. It is considered one of the first modern novels in the English language and explores themes of ambition, self-reliance, civilization, and power.

Written by Louisa May Alcott, 'Little Women' is a semi-autobiographical novel that details the lives of the March sisters in 1860s Massachusetts. The story is loosely based on Alcott's own childhood and that of her three sisters. It explores themes of domesticity, work, and true love, and is known for its portrayal of the sisters' distinct personalities and their struggles with societal expectations. The novel follows their experiences with poverty, illness, and personal growth, and it has been praised for its realistic and empathetic depiction of family life and the challenges faced by women during that era.