Carolyn Wells
Patty's Butterfly Days
"Patty's Butterfly Days" by Carolyn Wells is a young adult novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the charming and spirited main character, Patty Fairfield, who finds herself torn between her love for the seashore and the expectation to travel to the mountains with her family. As she prepares for the trip, her interactions with friends and family reflect her good-natured personality and her adventures are underscored by themes of friendship, sacrifice, and youthful exuberance. At the start of the novel, we meet Patty as she reluctantly agrees to leave her beloved seashore home, where she has spent a delightful summer, to appease her mountain-loving friend Nan. Despite her cheerful facade, Patty grapples with feelings of disappointment, particularly regarding her treasured motorcar and the fun she will miss at Spring Beach. The opening chapters establish the dynamics of Patty's relationships with her friends, weaving in light-hearted banter, while foreshadowing the whimsical adventures to come, including her subsequent plans with her friend Mona and a rather unconventional gathering that leads to playful escapades. As the narrative unfolds, readers are set to enjoy Patty's spirited interactions and the humorous situations that arise from her determination to enjoy life to the fullest.