Joe the Hotel Boy; Or, Winning out by Pluck

"Joe the Hotel Boy; Or, Winning Out by Pluck” by Horatio Alger, Jr. is a story about a young person's journey through difficult circumstances, set in a time of vast social inequality. The story follows Joe Bodley, a boy supporting his hermit grandfather through hunting and fishing, dreaming of a better life. Despite his humble beginnings and a mysterious family history, Joe's interactions with both the wealthy and various unsavory antagonists underscore his resilience and determination. Joe faces complex situations as part of his job, but his desire to uncover his family's truth propels him forward, as the early chapters highlight the stark contrast between his life and that of the privileged, setting the tone for a long road ahead filled with adversity and the promise of triumph.