A Bicycle of Cathay
1900
Published in 1900, 'A Bicycle of Cathay' by Frank R. Stockton follows an unnamed young schoolteacher on a cycling vacation. Initially detached from his surroundings, he encounters various characters, including the doctor's daughter and a mysterious girl he helps after a bicycle accident. Through these interactions, the protagonist experiences an emotional awakening, exploring themes of companionship and connection amidst his travels. The novel reflects early 20th-century attitudes toward relationships and personal growth.
