Taken or left

In Short

Taken or Left is a heartwarming tale of a young boy, Peter, growing up in a large, bustling household with ten siblings. The story explores themes of faith, family, and redemption, as Peter navigates childhood challenges, learns valuable lessons, and discovers the importance of trust and honesty. Through his experiences, the book highlights the power of love, forgiveness, and the enduring bond between siblings.

The Story

Peter, the narrator, is one of ten boys in a large, busy household. His mother, though often weary, manages the family with love and care. Peter's story begins with a focus on his relationship with his youngest sister, Salome, whom he adores. As the eldest boy in the school, Peter takes pride in his responsibilities, but his life takes a turn when he is trusted with a task by his schoolmaster.

The master asks Peter to deliver a bill and payment to a seed merchant, a task that goes awry when Peter loses a shilling. In a moment of weakness, he takes a shilling from his father's earnings to replace the lost one, a decision that haunts him. This act of dishonesty becomes a central conflict in the story, as Peter struggles with guilt and the fear of being untrustworthy.

Peter's life is further complicated by his family's financial struggles and his mother's illness. When Salome falls ill with scarlatina, the family faces a crisis, and Peter's faith is tested. He attends a children's service where a sermon about the Second Coming deeply affects him, making him question his own readiness and the state of his soul.

As Peter grows, he finds work with a kind family, the Bagots, who offer him a stable home and a chance to learn new skills. He forms a close bond with their mistress, Mrs. Tremayne, and her son, Reggie, who is delicate and in need of care. Peter's time with the Bagots is marked by happiness and growth, but it is also a period of reflection and redemption.

When Salome recovers, Peter returns home, only to face new challenges. His mother's health declines, and the family's financial situation worsens. Peter's faith is tested again when he receives a telegram about Salome's illness, prompting him to return home. Despite his fears, Salome recovers, and Peter finds solace in his renewed faith and the love of his family.

The story concludes with Peter reflecting on his life twenty years later, having found peace and purpose in his work and relationships. He remains close to Salome and the Bagots, cherishing the lessons he learned and the love he shared with those around him.

How It Unfolds

Salome's Home: Peter introduces his large family and his special bond with his youngest sister, Salome.

The Lost Money: Peter is trusted with a task by his schoolmaster but loses a shilling, leading to a moment of dishonesty that haunts him.

Not to Be Trusted: Peter struggles with guilt and the fear of being untrustworthy, a conflict that shapes his actions.

A Children's Service: Peter attends a sermon that deeply affects him, making him question his faith and readiness for the Second Coming.

The Storm in the Night: A severe storm adds to the family's challenges, symbolizing the turmoil in Peter's life.

My First Place: Peter finds work with the Bagots, a kind family who offer him stability and a chance to grow.

Master Reggie: Peter forms a close bond with Reggie, Mrs. Tremayne's delicate son, and learns valuable lessons about care and responsibility.

There Is No Time to Lose: Peter faces a crisis when Reggie falls ill, testing his faith and resolve.

The Robber's Cave: Peter makes a poor choice, skipping work to explore a cave with a friend, leading to a moment of reflection and redemption.

The Storm: A storm symbolizes the turmoil in Peter's life, as he struggles with his conscience and the consequences of his actions.

A Terrible Time: Peter's family faces illness and financial hardship, testing his faith and resilience.

Salome's Recovery: Salome's recovery brings joy and relief, but Peter's journey of faith and redemption continues.

Great Sorrow: The death of Reggie brings sorrow, but Peter finds comfort in his faith and the love of his family.

After Twenty Years: Peter reflects on his life, finding peace and purpose in his work and relationships, cherishing the lessons he learned.

The People

Peter: The narrator and protagonist, Peter is a thoughtful and sensitive boy who struggles with guilt and the desire to do right. His journey is one of faith, redemption, and self-discovery.

Salome: Peter's youngest sister, Salome is a source of joy and love in his life. Her illness and recovery play a significant role in Peter's story, symbolizing hope and resilience.

Mother: Peter's mother, though often weary, is a loving and caring figure who manages the large family with dedication. Her health issues add to the family's challenges.

Father: Peter's father, a quiet and hardworking man, provides for the family but struggles with the financial burdens.

Mrs. Tremayne: A kind and compassionate woman who employs Peter, offering him a stable home and valuable life lessons.

Reggie: Mrs. Tremayne's delicate son, Reggie forms a close bond with Peter, teaching him about care and responsibility.

Bagot: A kind and wise man who works with Peter, offering guidance and support.

In Its Own Voice

"My mother had ten boys. It was no wonder that she often looked weary and out of spirits. It was no wonder that we seldom saw her in a cheerful and hopeful state of mind, for she was never strong, and she had to work and to toil as if she were."

Peter describes his mother's struggles, highlighting the challenges of managing a large family.

"I was very proud of my scholar, and was much pleased that she could read every word of it without a mistake. But Salome looked up at me with a puzzled expression on her face. 'Taken where, Peter?' she asked."

Peter's interaction with Salome, showcasing their close bond and her curiosity.

What It's Really About

Taken or Left is about the power of faith, family, and redemption in the face of life's challenges. It explores themes of honesty, trust, and the importance of doing what is right, even when it is difficult. The story highlights the impact of one's actions on others and the enduring love and support of family. It also delves into the spiritual journey of a young boy, as he grapples with guilt, seeks forgiveness, and finds solace in his faith.

Why Read It Today

Taken or Left is a timeless tale that resonates with readers of all ages, offering valuable lessons about honesty, faith, and family. The story's focus on a young boy's journey of self-discovery and redemption makes it a compelling read for those interested in character-driven narratives. While the language and setting reflect a bygone era, the themes of love, forgiveness, and the importance of doing what is right remain universally relevant.

The book's portrayal of family life, with its joys and struggles, provides a heartfelt and authentic glimpse into the dynamics of a large household. Peter's relationship with Salome, his mother, and the Bagots adds depth and emotion to the story, making it a touching and memorable read.

Readers who enjoy stories about personal growth, faith, and the power of love will find much to appreciate in Taken or Left. The book's message of redemption and the importance of living a honest and compassionate life is as relevant today as it was when the story was first written. While the pace may be slower than modern narratives, the rich character development and emotional depth make it a rewarding and uplifting read.