Betty Leicester: A Story for Girls

Betty, encouraged by her father to choose her own summer destination, decides to spend it with extended family in New England. She influences everyone she meets with her kindness and child-like wonder, but struggles with her adult identity. The book, first published in 1889, was written specifically for young women and is still enjoyed by a wide audience today. This edition features a new cover design and modern font to make it accessible to contemporary readers.

Format: Hardback
Length: 140 pages
Publication date: 15 February 2022
Publisher: West Margin Press

When Mr. Leicester determined that his Alaskan trip was too perilous for his daughter, Betty, he encouraged her to choose her own summer destination. Having traveled to numerous countries and cities, Betty had to carefully consider her options. As she realized the profound impact of missing her father, Betty found herself contemplating a solution. If she couldn't spend the summer with her father, she would spend it with her extended family. After years of pleading with Betty and her father to visit, Aunt Barbra and Mary were overjoyed to host Betty in their New England home. Bright and compassionate, Betty's presence influenced everyone she encountered, but as she relished her summer of new adventures, she found herself grappling with her identity as an adult and her childlike wonder. As a well-traveled young woman, Betty possessed experiences that were uncommon for her age. However, among all the places she had visited, none left as profound an impression on her as New England. The breathtaking views of the countryside and the Atlantic coast contrasted starkly with the distressing social conditions of her aunt's hometown village. Unwilling to stand by idly, Betty eagerly offered her assistance to anyone in need, as she listened attentively to their stories and sought to make sense of her own experiences. Originally published in 1889, Sarah Orne Jewett wrote "Betty Leicester: A Story for Girls" specifically for a young female audience. Recognizing the scarcity of books tailored to young women at that time, Jewett was committed to crafting a character and narrative that young girls could connect with. Despite its intended target audience, "Betty Leicester: A Story for Girls" continues to resonate with a wide range of readers. With its slice-of-life narrative, captivating portrayal of Betty's journey into adulthood, and intricate description of the setting, this Sarah Orne Jewett work exudes warmth and wholesomeness. This edition of "Betty Leicester: A Story for Girls" includes a preface by the author, providing insights into the historical context and significance of the work.

Dimension: 203 x 127 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781513135229