Sarah S. (Sarah Schoonmaker) Baker
Timid Lucy
"Timid Lucy" by Sarah S. Baker is a novel written in the mid-19th century. The story focuses on a sensitive and timid little girl named Lucy Vale, who navigates her fears and insecurities following the death of her mother. Set in a rural English village, the narrative explores Lucy's personal growth as she confronts her anxieties, particularly through her interactions with her brother Hartwell and her newly returned sister Rosa. The opening of the novel introduces Lucy as a delicate child who experiences fear in everyday situations, whether it’s her apprehension about sitting in her tidy bedroom or her trepidation during a thunderstorm. Despite the warmth of her surroundings and the love of her father and new sister, Lucy often feels alone, misunderstood, and bullied by her brother. The early chapters delve into Lucy's reflections as she struggles with her own self-worth, the pressures of morality instilled by her housekeeper, and her deep-seated fear of death and the unknown. As she navigates her tender feelings and the challenges of her young life, the stage is set for her eventual journey towards self-acceptance and healing with the support of her family.