The Story of a Bad Boy: Classic Literature, Historical Fiction from 1870

Step into the mischievous world of Tom Bailey, a boy who challenges the norms of well-behaved youngsters in Thomas Bailey Aldrich’s semi-autobiographical novel, The Story of a Bad Boy (1870). Departing from the typical portrayal of angelic children, Aldrich paints a vivid picture of a lively and spirited young lad navigating life in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Meet Tom Bailey, not just a bad boy, but a pretty bad one, as he freely indulges in a colorful array of antics. From being a bully to a vandal and an unabashed troublemaker, Tom embodies a zest for life accompanied by an almost excessive love for mischief. His escapades transport readers from the quaint streets of his New Hampshire hometown to the vibrant city of New Orleans and beyond. Aldrich fearlessly unveils the adventures of a boy unafraid to push boundaries and relish in the thrill of childhood rebellion. Controversial upon its initial release, The Story of a Bad Boy has since earned its place as the trailblazer of ‘bad boy’ literature, paving the way for beloved tales like Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn. Immerse yourself in this delightful and captivating narrative that continues to stand tall as a timeless and immensely enjoyable story of youthful exuberance and unbridled adventure. A Beautiful Reprint At Ginger Classics, we take every step possible to ensure that the original integrity of this book has been upheld to its highest standard. This means that the texts in this story are unedited and unchanged from the original author’s publication, preserving its earliest form for your enjoyment.