Jean N. (Jean Newton) McIlwraith
The Making of Mary
"The Making of Mary" by Jean N. McIlwraith is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story focuses on a young girl named Mary Mason, who is depicted as a resourceful and neglected child searching for a place to belong, transitioning from an abusive past to a new life with the Gemmell family, who take her in. The narrative explores themes of identity, kindness, and the quest for acceptance. At the start of the book, we meet Mary Mason, a frail girl living in a deserted farmhouse, having escaped an abusive situation. She bravely navigates her new environment, emphasizing her resilience despite loneliness and poverty. After a night of fear and uncertainty, she ventures to find refuge at the home of Mrs. Morgan, foreshadowing the struggles she will face as she seeks a sense of belonging. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to the Gemmell family, who take Mary in, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of her character and the complexities of her new life.