A Little Girl in Old Boston

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

23786

Title

A Little Girl in Old Boston

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Set in early 19th-century Boston, this charming tale follows six-year-old Doris, a French orphan arriving from England after her parents' death. Taken in by the Leverett family, she navigates Puritan customs, school life, and growing friendships while adapting to her new American home.

Summary up to 500 words

A Little Girl in Old Boston by Amanda M. Douglas offers a nostalgic glimpse into early American life through the eyes of Doris, a young French orphan who arrives in Boston after her father's death. Sent to America by her distant cousin, Doris is welcomed into the home of the Leverett family, where she finds warmth, education, and a sense of belonging. The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of a bustling, faith-centered community, capturing the daily rhythms of a time when thrift, piety, and strong family bonds defined society. Through Doris's experiences at Mrs. Webb's school and her interactions with lively relatives like Aunt Priscilla and spirited Betty, the story explores themes of identity, duty, and the evolving role of women. The novel vividly portrays Boston society, from discussions of tea taxes and Revolutionary War memories to the joys of Christmas and the challenges of winter. As Doris matures, she navigates questions about her place in a community that values simplicity and kindness, ultimately finding her footing in a world that balances tradition with the changing tides of history. The book captures the spirit of Old Boston with rich detail, offering readers a tender look at a time when simple pleasures and deep connections shaped daily life.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

Download URL

https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/23786.epub.noimages

Local file path

data/epubs/pg23786.epub

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Downloaded at

2026-07-04 10:08 UTC

Categories

• History
• Fiction