A Little Girl of Long Ago; Or, Hannah Ann / A Sequel to a Little Girl in Old New York

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

23781

Title

A Little Girl of Long Ago; Or, Hannah Ann / A Sequel to a Little Girl in Old New York

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

A nostalgic journey through 19th-century America, this sequel follows Hannah Ann Underhill as she matures from a curious child into a thoughtful young woman. Blending historical detail with romantic adventure, the novel explores themes of social change, war, and personal growth against the backdrop of evolving New York and beyond.

Summary up to 500 words

Set against the backdrop of a rapidly transforming America, Amanda M. Douglas's *A Little Girl of Long Ago* chronicles the life of Hannah Ann Underhill from 1846 to 1897. The narrative begins with young Hannah contemplating the longevity of the world and the mysteries of distant lands like Africa and China, themes that echo through her family's discussions at the breakfast table. As the story progresses, it captures the vibrant social life of Old New York, featuring elaborate costume balls, visits to historic sites in New Jersey, and encounters with Revolutionary relics. The plot expands to include dramatic expeditions where characters hear harrowing tales of slavery and naval adventures from a former sailor, grounding the narrative in the era's moral complexities. The tone shifts dramatically with the eruption of the American Civil War. The novel does not shy away from the horrors of battle, following characters like Jim Odell Underhill as they face the realities of conflict. While young men like Ben and John march off to serve, the story also highlights societal changes, including the rise of women's rights and the integration of new technologies. The narrative balances intimate family moments with grand historical events, illustrating how a generation matures amidst revolution and industrial progress. By the novel's conclusion, the characters have aged alongside the century. The story reflects on the passage of time, the enduring nature of love, and the legacy of their experiences. It depicts a society that has evolved from the simple country towns of the mid-19th century to a modern metropolis connected by railroads and telegraphs. The text explores the tension between tradition and progress, noting how new inventions like patent buttons and industrial schools reshape daily life. Ultimately, the book serves as a meditation on memory and change, showing how the 'little girls of long ago' grow old with the century while preserving the joy of girlhood. Through the eyes of Hannah Ann and her friends, Douglas captures the essence of an era defined by discovery, war, and the relentless forward march of history.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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data/epubs/pg23781.epub

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Categories

• History
• Fiction