Elizabeth Ann has always lived with her Great-aunt Harriet and Harriet’s daughter, Frances. Aunt Harriet and Aunt Frances coddle Elizabeth Ann, doing practically everything for her and keeping her sheltered from the outside world. Aunt Frances especially prides herself on how well she understands the little girl, and she makes a point of fussing over every little thing that happens to her. When Aunt Harriet falls ill, however, the two aunts must move for the sake of her health, and they cannot take Elizabeth Ann along with them. Instead, Elizabeth Ann goes to stay with Aunt Abigail and Uncle Henry Putney, and their daughter Ann - cousins about whom she has heard nothing but terrible things. As she settles into life on their farm, however, Elizabeth Ann - now known as Betsy - realizes how much she can do on her own and learns to truly understand herself. This lovely gem of a book is one of the best discoveries I have made through my Old School Sunday feature. Originally published in 1916, it is one of the oldest books I’ve reviewed, and yet, I relate to it much more strongly than many newer titles I have read. I loved everything about the story - the characters, the description, the structure, and the message. I was so impressed by the way each chapter built on the one before it to show Betsy’s growth from weak, dependent, and overprotected, to strong, confident, and self-reliant. I enjoyed how she changed in phases - first, she barely knows how to contribute to the household; then, a while later, she is able to imitate her cousin Ann’s actions and solve problems by her example. Finally, Betsy becomes experienced enough to make her own decisions and to look after a younger child herself. The reader can clearly follow this progression because each chapter so clearly illustrates a milestone in Betsy’s life. The story follows such a logical outline that it almost reads like a how-to manual for helping a child come into her own. Dorothy Canfield Fisher was a proponent of progressive education and her friendship with Maria Montessori led to her adoption of her philosophies, and her publication of several books that helped bring the Montessori method to the United States.1 The underlying message of this story reflects these beliefs and methods to the point that at least one Goodreads reviewer has joked that the story is “totally some kind of Montessori school propaganda.” Indeed, this book is essentially a tribute to the virtues to be gained from a Montessori education, and I think it is as useful to adults as it is motivational and inspiring to children. At times, it might seem that this theme takes over the story and becomes its sole focus, but it never bothered me or came across as preachy, perhaps because Elizabeth Ann’s transformation is such a powerful example of the Montessori method in action. Understood Betsy, though approaching its one hundredth birthday, still feels fresh and relevant today, and I think many contemporary kids, especially those who have not been given much freedom to explore the world for themselves, will relate to Betsy’s trepidation about her new surroundings as well as her willingness, over time, to try new things. This is the ultimate child-centered story, and I think every kid - male or female - can benefit from reading it. I know it is a new favorite for me, and a book I will probably return to in the future, especially when my own child is old enough to appreciate it. Footnotes: 1. Bragg, Lois. "Dorothy (Frances) Canfield Fisher." American Novelists, 1910-1945. Ed. James J. Martine. Detroit: Gale Research, 1981. Dictionary of Literary Biography Vol. 9. Literature Resource Center. Web. 18 Nov. 2013.
You can easily enjoy more healthy dinners on your low carb diet with these amazing low carb high protein meals. These high protein meal ideas are perfect to help you eat more nutritiously on your weight loss journey.
25 Crockpot Meals for Summer is the only list you need for flavorful slow cooker recipes that you can make without heating up the kitchen!
Easy back to school dinner ideas! These fun weeknight dinners are kid-approved and perfect for picky eaters.
Zucchinipuffer kalorienarm, gesund und fettarm zubereiten, damit sie sich zum Abnehmen eignen? Kein Problem! Unser Zucchini Puffer Rezept erfüllt genau diese Ansprüche und ist trotzdem ein mega leckeres Mittag- oder Abendessen.
Enhance your itinerary by visiting some of the best hidden gems in Italy. These Italy secret spots will a perfect for your trip.
This quick and easy beef enchilada recipe only calls for 5 ingredients. It's the perfect main course for a busy weeknight!
Spaghetti alla Nerano ist ein italienisches Pasta Rezept mit Zucchini, das ziemlich einfach zubereitet ist! Perfektes Rezept für die Zucchini Saison!
Saftige Zucchinipuffer: Sie werden ohne Öl im Ofen zubereitet.
Fresh and delicious Tomato and Basil Bruschetta that is super flavorful, so easy to make and such a huge crowdpleaser when entertaining!
Try these 10 stretches to loosen up all your tight and sore muscles and feel as good as if you’d had an actual massage. (OK, almost as good.)
I keep a list of protein ideas to share, because next to veggies, can be a struggle to come up with ideas you won't get bored with. Grab my list of high protein ideas here! {printable included}
This Chinese-style Beef Stir Fry combines tender beef steak with an array of colorful, crunchy fresh veggies coated in the absolute best, savory-sweet beef stir fry sauce. This nutritious meal is made in one-skillet or wok and comes together in 30-minutes. Gluten-free adaptable. Use your favorite veggies.
77 kleine schnelle Nähideen! Entdecke gratis Schnittmuster und einfache Nähideen, die du ganz schnell umsetzen kannst.
Oven Roasted Asparagus Recipe – Looking for the perfect side dish? The roasted asparagus Recipe is the perfect springtime side dish, whether for brunch or dinner. Our garlic parmesan roasted …
These cold lunch ideas for working man require no microwave or fridge. Packing a lunch can save money and be healthier for your construction worker husband.
Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe – This salad bursts with traditional Mexican flavors, like cotija cheese and chili, combined with the sweetness of the grilled corn. It’s a unique twist…
Healthy high-protein vegan recipes packed with veggies for plant-based diets. Easy for beginners, perfect for mealtime madness.
Experience the Old fashioned Salmon Patties, a dish that has been passed down from Native American families for generations. Using only the freshest local ingredients and traditional cooking methods, these patties offer both a satisfying taste and nutritious value. If you're a fan of salmon or just want to try something new, these patties are sure to be a hit.
This delicious homemade soft pretzel bites recipe is easy to make in about 1 hour with ingredients you likely already have on hand. See notes above for possible variations you can make too.
Hier findest du 25 Rezepte für die Heißluftfritteuse. Schnapp dir deinen Air Fryer und probier dich durch!
We've rounded up 40 of the best paleo recipes around, giving you whole, nutrient-dense foods in satisfying and delicious meals to keep mealtime exciting.
Lentil curry is one of our best lentil recipes as it’s easy to make, it can be frozen for those lazy weeknights, and it’s full of flavor, vitamins, and antioxidants.
This is my favorite peanut sauce recipe. It is made with just 6 key ingredients, and it is a great dipping sauce or dressing for salads.
Everyone loves this rich and creamy Homemade Alfredo Sauce Recipe. Made with five simple ingredients and ready in less than fifteen minutes, it’s easy to make and perfect with your favorite pasta or vegetables.
Although Italy is known for its big cities, there are many small towns in Italy worth a visit. Here are the prettiest Italian small towns.
Landscaping doesn't have to cost a bunch of a money. Some great design planning and a little DIY work can give you cheap landscaping fixes that look expensive.
Für Jamie Olivers Kultrezept brauchen Sie nur 3 Minuten. Die Tomatensoße passt zu allen Nudeln
Make the most of season with this surprisingly simple and delicious Roasted Cherry Tomato Sauce. This sauce is delicious on pasta, sandwiches and pizza!
Painting your home soon? Check out our list of the best exterior house colors 2024 has to offer before you get started.
30 no carb snacks that make the best zero carb foods including no carb snacks to buy, no carb sweet snacks, and no carb meals on the go.
Mit Milchtütendruck tolle Kunstwerke erschaffen ▻ einfache Schritt-für-Schritt-Anleitung ✓ für Kinder geeignet ✓ Gleich losdrucken!
Meine 10 besten Salate zum Grillen sind schnell gemacht. Neben Brot und Dips sind die leckeren Grillsalate ein absolutes Muss zu Gegrilltem.
If you have bad knees or arthritis - or you're recovering from an injury - give these knee strengthening exercises a try!
How To Get A Deep Piriformis Stretch To Get Rid of Sciatica, Hip & Lower Back Pain
