Little Folks Astray

by Sophie May

"Little Folks Astray" by Sophie May is a children's novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around a young girl named Flyaway and her adventures, particularly as she journeys to New York City with her brother Horace for the holidays. Their escapades are filled with charming and humorous moments, showcasing the naivete and curiosity of childhood. The opening of the novel introduces us to several key characters, primarily the Clifford family, including Flyaway, her mother, and brother Horace. We learn that despite being tucked into bed, Flyaway and her siblings cannot resist the temptation to get up and see their visitors. The chapter unfolds with Flyaway feeding her pet mice and engaging in dialogue with her brother, revealing her innocent and playful personality. As the story progresses, we see hints of a journey to visit their Aunt Madge in New York, setting the stage for the adventures to come. The interactions highlight the dynamics of sibling relationships and the innocent mischief of childhood as they prepare for their exciting trip.