Caroline French Benton
A Little Housekeeping Book for a Little Girl; Or, Margaret's Saturday Mornings
"A Little Housekeeping Book for a Little Girl; Or, Margaret's Saturday Mornings" by Caroline French Benton is a children's manual written in the early 20th century. This instructional work employs a fictional narrative to guide young readers through various household tasks, focusing on practical skills and the importance of cleanliness. The story centers around Margaret, a young girl eager to learn about housekeeping and make the most of her Saturday mornings. At the start of the book, we are introduced to Margaret as she prepares for Christmas, filled with excitement and curiosity. Surrounded by family, she learns that her presents include a unique tree decorated with housekeeping items, symbolizing her new responsibilities. Margaret's joy transforms into a passion for cleanliness and order as she receives a special book called "Saturday Mornings," which promises delightful lessons about housekeeping. As the initial chapters unfold, readers witness Margaret's firsthand experiences that encompass cooking, cleaning, and the joy of mastering domestic tasks, all of which help cultivate her character and skills in a wholesome, engaging manner.