Eyebright: A Story

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

27223

Title

Eyebright: A Story

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Susan Coolidge's charming tale follows Eyebright, a spirited and imaginative girl who leaves her New England home after a family tragedy. Adopted by the kind Mr. and Mrs. Joyce, she finds a new family on a coastal island, navigating friendship, romance, and the bittersweet transition from childhood to young adulthood in this heartwarming story of resilience and love.

Summary up to 500 words

Susan Coolidge's *Eyebright: A Story* chronicles the poignant transition of Isabella Bright, known affectionately as Eyebright, from her idyllic childhood in Tunxet to a new life on the island of Pocobasset. The narrative opens in the Tunxet schoolhouse, where Eyebright and her friend Bessie Mather engage in imaginative historical dramas among the school trees. However, this peaceful existence is shattered by financial hardship following the death of Eyebright's mother. Her father, Mr. Bright, and their loyal housekeeper, Wealthy, are forced to leave their home, a departure marked by the emotional auction of their belongings and Wealthy's instruction of Eyebright in essential domestic skills like baking and cooking. Leaving the mainland, the family travels to Pocobasset, an island taken in by Mr. Joyce, a widower who has longed for a daughter. Eyebright initially harbors fears of her new stepmother, Mrs. Joyce, but these anxieties quickly dissolve upon her arrival. The Joyce household offers a secure haven, characterized by warmth, affection, and a distinct New England atmosphere. Eyebright integrates seamlessly into the family, forming a strong bond with Mr. Joyce's son, Charley. The story explores themes of adoption, the maturation from childhood to adolescence, and the enduring nature of family bonds. Throughout the novel, Coolidge captures the rustic charm of the island and the bustling activity of the mainland town. Eyebright's character development is central; she evolves from a playful, sometimes mischievous child into a thoughtful young woman who deeply appreciates the stability and love of her new home. The narrative highlights the contrast between the loss of her old life and the joy of her new chapter. The story concludes with a sense of contentment, suggesting a bright future for Eyebright and Charley, though the primary focus remains on the warmth of the Joyce family's acceptance and the girl's successful navigation of her new life. The novel serves as a tender exploration of resilience and the healing power of familial love.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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data/epubs/pg27223.epub

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Categories

• Fiction
• Education