Jr. Horatio Alger 
Paul the Peddler; Or, The Fortunes of a Young Street Merchant 

Paul the Peddler is a great read. If you like the lifestyle of a many years ago and add intrigue, you’ll like this story.

After his father dies, Paul has to learn to work in the streets to help support his seamstress mother and lame but artistic little brother. He follows Alger’s principles: keep at it, adapt, learn the tricks of the trade, stay honest, and be ready to fight when necessary.