The Crock of Gold: A Rural Novel

"The Crock of Gold: A Rural Novel" by Martin Farquhar Tupper is a story set in the 1800's about a working man named Roger Acton who faces tough times, living in the countryside. The book discusses themes of being poor versus being rich, fighting to do what's right, and how wanting too much money can change people. It paints a sad but real picture of the working class in the countryside, focusing a lot on the internal battle that Roger faces as he dreams of finding a stash of gold to improve the life of him and his family. Facing hardship and with his daughter trying to keep his spirits high with readings, the book discusses how he struggles with right and wrong, and his place in a world that seems unfair. All this sets the scene to talk about the difficult parts of life, played out against the backdrop of fields and farms.