Our September pick was "A Little Princess" by Frances Hodgson Burnett. This short novel is reminiscent of many a good tale, full of struggle and strength, heartache and joy. The story follows a young girl, Sara Crewe who is brought to a school by her father to live and be taught while he is working abroad. She is incredibly wealthy but also kind, smart and creative. She has experienced life in India allowing her a broad imagination and a different perspective on life.
Sara goes from being wealthy and privileged to poor and a servant girl when she learns of her father's death and the collapse of his business. She is treated cruelly by the Headmistress and many of the other servants but copes by using her imagination and kindhearted spirit to help others around her. The novel is sweet and uplifting, but also quite engaging. It is filled with examples of people, good and bad that surround us and how people do or do not deal with tragedy and suffering.
Sara helps those around her and lifts up those who are suffering, even as she is struggling in her own situation. She is an excellent example of how kindness and service to others can relieve some of the sting of our daily trials. Thankfully the story ends with the neighbor discovering that she is the daughter of his former partner; he is releived to have found her and to be able to restore her to her fortune and take her in. The arc of the story is one of overcoming trials and having a happy and kind heart. It is a delightful read, engaging and well written. Recommended for children, it is still a book people of all ages can enjoy and learn from. It was a fabulous choice for Book Club and a satisfying read.
"There's nothing so strong as rage, except what makes you hold it
in--that's stronger. It's a good thing not to answer your enemies."
―
Frances Hodgson Burnett,
A Little Princess
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