The Story of a Bad Boy by Thomas Bailey Aldrich is a delightful and amusing novel that follows the adventures of a mischievous young boy named Tom Bailey. Set in the quaint town of Rivermouth, the story is told from Tom's perspective as he navigates the challenges of childhood and adolescence.

Aldrich captures the essence of boyhood with humor and warmth, giving readers a glimpse into the world of a spirited and curious young boy. Tom's escapades, pranks, and antics will keep readers entertained and engaged from beginning to end.

The novel also explores themes of friendship, family, and growing up, as Tom learns valuable lessons about responsibility and the consequences of his actions. Aldrich's storytelling is engaging and the characters are well-developed, making it easy to become invested in Tom's story.

Overall, The Story of a Bad Boy is a charming and nostalgic read that is sure to resonate with readers of all ages. Aldrich's timeless tale of youthful adventures and coming of age is a true classic that continues to entertain readers to this day.

Book Description:
Thomas Bailey Aldrich was a child when his father moved to New Orleans from Portsmouth, New Hampshire. After 10 years, Aldrich was sent back to Portsmouth to prepare for college. This period of his life is partly described in his semi-autobiographical novel The Story of a Bad Boy (1870), in which "Tom Bailey" is the juvenile hero. Critics have said that this novel contains the first realistic depiction of childhood in American fiction and prepared the ground for Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. Aldrich went on to associate with many of the literati of his time in New York City, and was editor of the Atlantic Monthly in the 1880's.

His son died of Tuberculosis in Saranac lake, NY, and the family house is now a Bed and Breakfast there. The Aldrich house in Portsmouth is part of the Strawberry Banke Museum in Portsmouth, New Hampshire.