By the Good Sainte Anne: A Story of Modern Quebec

by Anna Chapin Ray

"By the Good Sainte Anne: A Story of Modern Quebec" by Anna Chapin Ray is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set against the backdrop of Quebec and follows Nancy Howard, a young American girl who is struggling with feeling exiled from her social life back home as her father studies history in the picturesque but remote region of Beaupré. The narrative explores Nancy's interactions with a cast of characters that reveals both her longing for excitement and the cultural dynamics of the area. The opening of the novel introduces Nancy Howard, who is feeling exasperated by her father's academic pursuits that keep her isolated in the countryside while her friends are enjoying social events back home. As she engages with a local woman, Madame Gagnier, she learns of a pilgrimage to the church of Sainte Anne-de-Beaupré, sparking her curiosity about the miracles associated with it. The chapter captures Nancy’s spirited desire for adventure and connection, as she resolves to participate in the pilgrimage. Simultaneously, we encounter a young Englishman, Mr. Cecil Barth, who finds himself in Quebec but is grappling with his own feelings of isolation, setting the stage for future interactions between them. Through a blend of humor and introspection, the narrative hints at the themes of cultural clash, faith, and personal growth that will unfold in their journey within the unique setting of modern Quebec.