Horatio Alger's Ragged Dick is praised for its inspirational story and positive portrayal of upward mobility through hard work and perseverance. Readers appreciate the moral lessons and relatable protagonist. However, some criticize its dated language and simplistic plot, considering them less engaging by modern standards. Overall, it remains a noteworthy classic in children's literature.

Readers who enjoy Horatio Alger's Ragged Dick are often drawn to rags-to-riches stories with a moral lesson. Fans of Mark Twain's The Adventures of Tom Sawyer or Charles Dickens's David Copperfield may appreciate the heroic perseverance and social mobility themes. This book appeals to those who delight in nineteenth-century American literature and inspirational narratives.

In Horatio Alger’s Ragged Dick, a 14-year-old bootblack named Dick Hunter navigates the streets of New York City in the nineteenth century. With his sharp wit, honesty, and hard work, Dick rises from humble beginnings to prosperity by improving his education, securing a respectable appearance, and taking advantage of lucrative opportunities, ultimately earning a position as a clerk in a counting-house.

Inspirational / Hopeful / Adventurous / Heartwarming

- Ragged Dick was first published in 1868 as a serialized story in the magazine Student and Schoolmate, capturing readers with its rags-to-riches tale.
- The story of Ragged Dick contributed to the popularization of the "rags-to-riches" trope in American literature, reinforcing themes of self-reliance and the American Dream.
- Horatio Alger, the author of Ragged Dick, was an ordained minister before he became a prominent writer, and he aimed to instill moral lessons through his works.

**Dick Hunter (Ragged Dick)**  
The fourteen-year-old protagonist who starts as a raggedy bootblack, characterized by his essential goodness, wit, and ambition despite an imperfect beginning.

**Mr. Greyson**  
A wealthy businessman who mentors Dick and Henry, offering guidance and opportunities, including inviting Dick to his Sunday school class and assisting in job testimonials.

**Johnny Nolan**  
Dick's foil, another fourteen-year-old bootblack who lacks ambition and energy, earning less than Dick and often in need of direction and support.

**Mr. Whitney**  
Frank's uncle and a successful businessman who mentors Dick, encouraging him to strive for success and self-improvement with practical advice and support.

**Frank Whitney**  
A compassionate and resourceful fourteen-year-old who becomes Dick's first true friend, offering him clothes and advice to better his life.

**Micky Maguire**  
A stout and bold antagonist who bullies weaker boys and harbors resentment toward those who improve themselves or appear superior.

**Henry Fosdick**  
A younger, studious boy with a disciplined nature who becomes Dick's tutor and friend, helping Dick advance in his studies and social status.

**Ida Greyson**  
The nine-year-old daughter of Mr. Greyson, representing the respectable young females in society and introducing Dick to this new social circle.

**Roswell Crawford**  
An arrogant character used to highlight Henry Fosdick's humility, who looks down on manual labor and those not of gentlemanly birth.

**Tom Wilkins**  
A young bootblack experiencing unfortunate circumstances, whom Dick helps financially due to his generous nature.

**Jim Travis**  
A sallow-complexioned young man who represents the novel's primary villain, embodying the flaws and bad habits aspiring boys should avoid.

**James Rockwell**  
A wealthy merchant whose actions reward Dick for his virtues and courageous deeds, often providing assistance in unexpected ways.

Horatio Alger

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