Proud and Lazy: A Story for Little Folks

"Proud and Lazy: A Story for Little Folks" by Oliver Optic is a children's story written in the late 19th century. The book introduces us to Tommy Woggs, a proud and lazy boy whose entitlement leads to conflict with his peers and challenges in school. This narrative likely explores themes of pride, laziness, and the importance of obedience and learning, making it a valuable read for young audiences. The opening of the story establishes Tommy's character as he navigates his first days at school. Initially excited, Tommy soon clashes with Miss Dale, his teacher, due to his refusal to follow rules and participate in class activities. His disobedience leads to a confrontation with Miss Dale, who uses discipline to teach him the importance of respect and compliance. This portion sets the groundwork for Tommy’s further development, hinting at lessons he must learn about humility, responsibility, and the consequences of his actions. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

William Taylor Adams, pseudonym Oliver Optic, was an academic, author, and a member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives.