Five Little Peppers and How They Grew

by Margaret Sidney

"Five Little Peppers and How They Grew" by Margaret Sidney is a novel published in 1881. It follows the Pepper family—five children and their widowed mother—living in poverty in their little brown house. Though Mamsie works tirelessly to support them, the children's spirits remain unbroken. When young Phronsie is kidnapped, her rescue by wealthy Jasper King transforms their lives forever. The Kings welcome the Peppers into their grand home, surrounding them with luxury while Mamsie ensures her children never forget the values of hard work and humility.