Ruth Fielding in the Red Cross; Or, Doing Her Best for Uncle Sam

"Ruth Fielding in the Red Cross; Or, Doing Her Best for Uncle Sam" by Alice B. Emerson is a fiction novel written in the early 20th century. The book follows Ruth Fielding, a determined young woman whose life takes a patriotic turn as she volunteers for the Red Cross during World War I, preparing to support soldiers heading to the front lines. The narrative explores themes of female empowerment, the spirit of service, and the emotional toll of war on families and communities. The opening of the story introduces us to Ruth, who is packing a box for the local Red Cross chapter as she grapples with her friend Helen's distress over her brother Tom's decision to enlist. Ruth’s uncle, Jabez, displays unexpected enthusiasm for the war, sharing his own experience as a soldier from the Civil War, emphasizing a sense of duty. As Ruth and her friends become increasingly involved in war support efforts, the dialogue hints at the community's reluctance and skepticism toward the war, particularly represented by a character named Mrs. Mantel, who seems to undermine the Red Cross's importance. This sets the stage for a tale of activism, friendship, and the quest for meaningful contributions amid the turbulence of wartime.