Ballads and Poems

The life of Horatio Alger, Jr. is marked by both literary success and personal controversy. An American writer known for his popular boys' books, he began his career as a Unitarian minister but faced allegations of child molestation that ended his clerical career. Relocating to New York City, he established himself as a professional writer, achieving significant acclaim with his fourth boys' book, Ragged Dick, in 1868. Alger's works often embody themes of perseverance and success against adversity, resonating with young readers of his time.