Hector's Inheritance, Or, the Boys of Smith Institute
1885
Hector's Inheritance, Or, the Boys of Smith Institute is a juvenile fiction novel by Horatio Alger, Jr., first published in 1885. The story follows Hector Roscoe, who learns he is not the heir he believed himself to be, leading him to confront issues of identity and social class while navigating life at a boarding school. Set against the backdrop of 19th-century New York, the narrative highlights Hector's struggles with family dynamics, school conflicts, and personal growth as he faces challenges from peers, including a school bully. The book addresses themes of resilience and the importance of education in shaping one's future.
