Tom, Dick and Harriet

"Tom, Dick, and Harriet" by Ralph Henry Barbour is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around the life of Dick Somes, a new student at Hammond Academy, who strikes up a lively friendship with Harriet "Harry" Emery, the daughter of the principal at the rival Ferry Hill School. Their interactions serve as a backdrop for themes of competition, friendship, and the youthful spirit of adventure, as they explore school life and their aspirations within it. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to Dick Somes as he experiences a bitterly cold day skating on the frozen Hudson River. During his excursion, he meets Harry Emery, a spirited girl struggling with a broken skate strap. Their initial banter is playful, and as their conversation continues, Dick learns about the differences between their schools and expresses curiosity about Ferry Hill. The opening chapter sets up their budding relationship while also hinting at a larger rivalry between their respective institutions, as well as the adventures that lie ahead concerning school activities, competitions, and Dick's eventual decision about where he will study.