Tony, the Hero; Or, A Brave Boy's Adventures with a Tramp

"Tony, the Hero; Or, A Brave Boy's Adventures with a Tramp" by Horatio Alger, Jr. tells the tale of Tony, a 14-year-old living a wanderer's life with his shady, tramp uncle Rudolph, set in late 19th century New York, where he dreams of escaping a life of uncertainty for one filled with stability and belonging. This novel examines the courage to transform one's destiny, the allure of a more desirable life, and the search for oneself, as the boy confronts his reality, even as his uncle embraces their freedom. Tired of their vagrant lifestyle, Tony expresses his wishes for change and the narrative immediately sets the stage for his ambitious self-discovery and his desire to belong.