Ben runs away from home and lives on the streets of New York City for years. He learns how to survive and finds work as a newsboy and as a baggage smasher, and works to make enough money to put away into the bank. In presenting "Ben, the Luggage Boy," to the public, as the fifth of the Ragged Dick Series, the author desires to say that it is in all essential points a true history; the particulars of the story having been communicated to him, by Ben himself, nearly two years since. In particular, the circumstances attending the boy's running away from home, and adopting the life of a street boy, are in strict accordance with Ben's own statement.

Reproduction of the original: Ben, the Luggage Boy by Horatio Alger

In publishing "Ben, the Luggage Boy," Alger said that it is in all essential points a true history, the particulars of the story having been communicated to him by Ben himself. In particular, the circumstances surrounding the boy's running away from home and adopting the life of a street boy, are in strict accordance with Ben's own statement. Included in this Illustrated Edition of the 1870 version of "Ben, the Luggage Boy" are all five original illustrations, rejuvenated, and 10 additional, illustrations of New York City are unique to this edition of the book.

"[...] BEN, THE LUGGAGE BOY; OR, AMONG THE WHARVES. CHAPTER I.[...]".

Young Ben runs away from home after a conflict with his father and lives on the streets of New York City for years, but his mother still hopes to see him again.

By Horatio Jr. Alger: Set in New York, this tale follows Ben, a young runaway navigating life on the city's wharves. Alger masterfully portrays the challenges and adventures of street life, offering a glimpse into the resilience of youth amidst adversity.