Hans Brinker Or, The Silver Skates

Set in the Netherlands, this novel explores themes of adolescent honor and Dutch life in the early 19th century. The story follows Hans Brinker, who dreams of winning the prestigious silver skates in an ice skating competition. It introduces American readers to Dutch speed skating and popularizes the tale of a young boy who heroically plugs a dyke with his finger. Inspired by extensive historical research and firsthand accounts from her Dutch neighbors, Mary Mapes Dodge crafted a vivid cultural portrayal despite never visiting the Netherlands before publication.