Prudence Says So

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

21635

Title

Prudence Says So

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Set in a modest parsonage, this charming comedy follows the Starr family as they navigate domestic life, sibling rivalries, and the arrival of Aunt Grace. With witty dialogue and heartwarming character development, the story explores themes of growing up, family loyalty, and the transition from youthful playfulness to mature responsibility.

Summary up to 500 words

In Ethel Hueston's *Prudence Says So*, the Starr family, residing in the cozy parsonage, navigates a series of humorous and heartfelt adventures centered around their distinct personalities and the arrival of their new chaperon, Aunt Grace. The narrative introduces the minister father and his four daughters: Prudence, the responsible elder; Fairy, the sentimental middle child; Connie, the unique and practical youngest; and the inseparable twins, Carol and Lark. The story opens with the girls preparing for a visit, highlighting their close-knit dynamic, from Lark and Carol's playful schemes to alter appearances to Fairy's deep-seated fear of the parsonage losing its 'home' feel when the family eventually disperses through marriage. A significant portion of the plot revolves around Lark's literary ambitions. Aspiring to be a newspaper reporter, she is sent to cover a tragic story involving the Daly family. Overwhelmed by the emotional weight of the event and her own ministerial heritage, Lark refuses to write the piece, realizing she is not cut out for the harsh realities of journalism. She retreats from the profession, choosing instead a path of personal writing that avoids harrowing others' feelings, a decision supported by her family who value the parsonage as a sanctuary for sorrows rather than a place to expose them. Romantic complications arise when Carol mistakenly leads a suitor, Professor David Duke, to believe she is engaged to him. In reality, the Professor's heart belongs to her twin, Lark. This mix-up is resolved when the Professor reveals his own calling to the ministry, deciding to attend a theological seminary despite a lucrative offer from an institute. The family supports his decision, recognizing the strength of his 'clear call.' The central romantic arc culminates in a tender proposal from Professor Duke to Carol. After a period of confusion and Carol's feigned engagement to a high school acquaintance named Jim Forrest, the truth is revealed, and Carol realizes her feelings for the Professor. In a sweet and slightly awkward scene, she admits she has been waiting for him since her freshman year. The novel concludes with the family united, celebrating the Professor's new vocation and Carol's happiness, reinforcing the enduring bonds of family and the gentle humor that defines their daily lives in Mount Mark.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Weddings
• Betrothal
• Methodists