Frances Milton Trollope's "Life and Adventures of Michael Armstrong, the Factory Boy" is a heart-wrenching tale of a young boy's struggle through the harsh realities of working in a factory during the Industrial Revolution. Set in England during the early 19th century, the novel follows Michael Armstrong as he navigates the exploitative conditions of the factory, the injustices of society, and his own personal journey towards self-discovery and resilience.

Trollope's writing is compelling and emotional, drawing the reader into Michael's world and highlighting the horrors of child labor and poverty. The characters are well-developed and the plot is engaging, with twists and turns that keep the reader hooked until the very end.

Despite the dark subject matter, there are moments of hope and triumph in the novel that serve as a reminder of the strength of the human spirit. Overall, "Life and Adventures of Michael Armstrong, the Factory Boy" is a powerful and thought-provoking read that sheds light on an important period in history and the enduring fight for justice and equality.

Book Description:
The industrial revolution led to the rise of manufacture and, thus, the cotton mill factories. This important novel tells about the plight of Michael Armstrong, one of the boys who is forced to work there. The aim of the novel was to expose the public to the conditions of thousands of "infant labourers" around the northern mill towns. The novel drew much criticism, of course. Yet, nonetheless, it is a forgotten masterpiece, perfect for fans of Oliver Twist and North and South. It is a brave novel, full of truth and honesty, yet probably not for the faint of heart. - Summary by Stav Nisser.