Amanda M. Douglas
A Little Girl in Old St. Louis
"A Little Girl in Old St. Louis" by Amanda M. Douglas is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around a young girl named Renée de Longueville, who finds herself in the company of her grandfather in Old St. Louis after being brought over from France, where her life took a drastic turn following her mother’s death. The narrative showcases Renée's struggles to adapt to her new home, her longing for belonging, and her relationships with her uncle Gaspard Denys and other local characters. The opening of the novel introduces the reader to the rugged yet vibrant backdrop of Old St. Louis in the late 18th century. Renée's arrival, carried in by Gaspard after a long journey from Canada, sets the stage for her new life. The tension between Renée and her grandfather, who harbors a grudging acceptance of his granddaughter, begins to emerge as Gaspard's protective instincts come to the forefront. As the girl interacts with her new surroundings, including the local Indigenous community and the bustling market, the narrative hints at themes of family, identity, adaptation, and the complexity of human relationships in a developing frontier town. Through Renée's youthful perspective, readers are invited to experience her journey toward finding a place she can call home amidst the challenges that come with change.