Peggy

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

25448

Title

Peggy

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Laura E. Richards' 'Peggy' offers a charming idyl of New England village life, centering on a spirited freshman navigating the trials of boarding school. With delightful humor and vivid characterizations, the novel explores themes of friendship, redemption, and the transition from wild independence to domestic responsibility, appealing to readers who enjoy wholesome, spirited coming-of-age stories.

Summary up to 500 words

In Laura Elizabeth Howe Richards' *Peggy*, a lively tale of New England boarding school life, the narrative centers on Peggy Montfort, a sensible and honest farm girl who arrives at Pentland School. Initially overwhelmed by the stark contrast between her sunny home and the bare, institutional dormitory, Peggy finds solace in her roommate, Bertha Haughton, and the eccentric Grace Wolfe. Known as the 'Scapegoat' for her mischievous pranks, Grace becomes Peggy's unlikely friend and protector. The story explores the school's unique social hierarchy, featuring the studious 'Owl's Nest' and the chaotic 'Bedlam' dormitory. Tensions escalate as Grace's wild behavior, including sneaking out at night and pranking teachers, threatens expulsion. Despite accusations from the jealous Miss Pugsley, the faculty recognizes Grace's intelligence and industry. The narrative reaches a transformative climax when Grace saves the life of the seriously ill Lobelia Parkins, proving her capacity for deep love and selflessness. Following this experience, Grace undergoes a significant change, learning to channel her energy positively. The novel concludes with the four girls—Peggy, Bertha, Grace, and the Snowy Owl—forming an unbreakable bond, declaring themselves 'We Four Against the World.' Richards' prose is affectionate and witty, capturing the specific atmosphere of late 19th-century education with warmth.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

Download URL

https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/25448.epub.noimages

Local file path

data/epubs/pg25448.epub

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Downloaded at

2026-07-03 16:08 UTC

Categories

• Fiction
• Girls