Julius, the Street Boy; or, Out West

"Julius, the Street Boy; or, Out West" by Horatio Alger Jr. follows a young boy named Julius, who leaves behind the tough streets of 19th century New York City in search of a more honorable life out West, escaping the clutches of his criminal guardian and the temptations of a life of crime after deciding to part ways with his old life and venturing westward for a fresh start, guided by the Children’s Aid Society. As he prepares to leave, we see him interact with his fellow street kids, highlighting the contrast between their chaotic city lives and his aspirations for a more upright existence, but he is still met by the troubles of his past, with dangers and criminals lurking around. Julius’s journey embodies themes of ambition, redemption, and the pursuit of a better future, capturing the spirit of adventure and self-improvement so often found in stories of that time.