Les petites filles modèles

by Sophie Ségur

"Les petites filles modèles" by comtesse de Sophie Ségur is a children's novel published in 1858. The story follows two exemplary sisters, Camille and Madeleine de Fleurville, who befriend young Marguerite de Rosbourg and Sophie de Réan. While the first three girls learn to distinguish right from wrong through various adventures, Sophie suffers under her cruel stepmother, Madame Fichini, who beats and starves her. Through patience and compassion, the model girls help Sophie overcome the deep-rooted faults caused by her mistreatment.