Subject
Vermont -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Dorothy Canfield Fisher
Understood Betsy
"Understood Betsy" by Dorothy Canfield Fisher is a children's novel published in 1916. When fragile, anxious Elizabeth Anne is suddenly sent from her overprotective city aunts to distant farming relatives in rural Vermont, she faces a world entirely unlike her sheltered upbringing. At the Putney farm, she encounters one-room schoolhouses, maple syrup making, and unexpected freedoms. As Elizabeth navigates her new life among the practical, no-nonsense Putneys, she begins discovering capabilities within herself she never knew existed. But what will happen when her city aunt wants her back?
Clarence Budington Kelland
Mark Tidd's Citadel
"Mark Tidd's Citadel" by Clarence Budington Kelland is a children’s adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Mark Tidd and his friends as they venture to a seemingly abandoned summer hotel for their vacation, only to discover it has not been operational for years. Faced with the challenge of their unexpected situation, they decide to rent the hotel and take on the adventure of running it themselves, all while encountering a mystery surrounding a Japanese boy named Motu, who seems to be hiding from unknown pursuers. The opening of the novel introduces Mark Tidd, his friends Plunk, Binney, and Tallow as they arrive at the long-desired summer destination, only to find the hotel closed and dilapidated. The laughter quickly turns to concern as they realize the implications of their predicament. However, Mark's determination shines through as he swiftly proposes they reach out to the hotel's owner and negotiate for a rental. As the boys settle into their adventure, they also encounter strange happenings and an air of intrigue when they discover that Motu is connected to an impending danger, setting the stage for their coming challenges as they attempt to protect him.
Mary Ellen Chase
The Girl from the Big Horn Country
"The Girl from the Big Horn Country" by Mary Ellen Chase is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book centers around Virginia Hunter, a spirited young girl from the scenic Big Horn mountains in Wyoming, as she prepares to leave her home to attend school in the East, facing the challenges of new experiences far from her familiar surroundings. At the start of the novel, Virginia is deeply connected to her upbringing in the West, relishing the beauty of the Elk Creek Valley and the company of her cherished friends, particularly Donald Keith. As she bids farewell to her childhood home and contemplates her journey to Vermont, she grapples with a mix of excitement and homesickness. The initial chapter vividly describes her last day in Wyoming, highlighting her close relationships and the sense of belonging she feels to the rugged landscape, all while foreshadowing her upcoming adventures and the adjustments she must make in an unfamiliar environment.
Caroline Emilia Jacobs
The S. W. F. Club
"The S. W. F. Club" by Caroline Emilia Jacobs is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers on the life of Pauline Almy Shaw, a spirited young girl who seeks to help her ailing sister Hilary by reaching out to their estranged Uncle Paul for assistance. As the plot unfolds, it reveals themes of family dynamics, the importance of communication, and the adventure of crafting a fulfilling summer at home amid challenges. The opening of the narrative introduces Pauline as she pens a heartfelt letter to her Uncle Paul, desperate to remedy Hilary's deteriorating health. The girl’s determination to mend her sister's spirits drives the story forward, showcasing her imaginative nature and willingness to take risks, despite the reservations of her parents about invoking their uncle's help. As Pauline awaits a response, readers get a glimpse into the dynamics among Pauline, her sisters, and their parents, setting up a rich backdrop of family interactions that will evolve as they navigate their summer of hopeful possibilities.
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