I know this is an oldie that’s been around forever, and most likely you’ve read it, but I just reread it for part of our homeschool Literature lessons and I remembered again how much I love it! So, so good! We have several copies as well as an audiobook version my daughter listens to all the time. I love this version from The Good and the Beautiful for many reasons but also because it comes with a ribbon bookmark. I am personally a fan of books having a ribbon bookmark. Such a nice thoughtful touch. Keeps me from searching all over for a scrap of paper to hold my place. Also helps when my younger kids find my book and pull the bookmark out. Like a prize or something. Maybe that only happens at my house…?
Anyways, if you haven’t had the pleasure of reading this wonderful book, this is the remarkable story of Sara Crewe, a darling girl I wish I was much more like in her kindness and imagination. It was written by Frances Hodgson Burnett, a wonderfully talented author, and first published as a book in 1905 but was first a play in 1902 (London) and on Broadway in New York in 1903. It’s also been adapted into film several times over the years, including a 1939 Shirley Temple version. We have a curly haired little girl in our home, so we love Shirley Temple’s movies. 🙂
Here is the plot synopsis found on The Good and the Beautiful website:
Sara Crewe is her father’s little princess, and she has an extraordinary imagination. A stuffy English boarding school like Miss Minchin’s Select Seminary for Young Ladies may stifle some children, but Sara sees all the wonders of life and excites her fellow students as she turns the most mundane tasks into majestic events. When she receives devastating news that abruptly changes her comfortable life, Sara resolves to carry herself with dignity and grace. Her possessions and her storytelling are colorful and exciting, but it is her kindness and strength of character that leave an impression on others and come back to bless her in remarkable ways.
It is so hard to come away from reading this book and NOT be inspired to be a better person. Sara is so kind and thoughtful. She is such a great example to others. These are the types of books that I love! These are the type of books I love sharing with others, especially my children. These are the types of books that should be flooding the world instead of so much of what is out there. Yikes, I’m digressing. I’ll stop eating up your time now.
If you haven’t read this book, change that today! If you have read it, it is so worth reading again! Either way, find yourself a copy and be inspired!
Happy reading!