The Girl Wanted: A Book of Friendly Thoughts

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

26683

Title

The Girl Wanted: A Book of Friendly Thoughts

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Nixon Waterman's "The Girl Wanted" offers cheerful counsel to young women, drawing on the wisdom of world-renowned teachers and philosophers. This volume encourages girls to cultivate kindness, enthusiasm, and good habits, asserting that noble womanhood is essential to the nation's future.

Summary up to 500 words

In 'The Girl Wanted: A Book of Friendly Thoughts,' Nixon Waterman presents a collection of inspirational prose and verse designed to guide girls from age seven to seventy. Following the success of his companion volume for boys, 'Boy Wanted,' Waterman assembles wisdom from famous thinkers alongside his own writings to address the lives of young women. The book argues that the current era is the most significant in history for women, urging them to seize opportunities rather than clinging to the past. The text is divided into chapters covering essential life skills and virtues, beginning with 'Choosing the Way.' This section emphasizes the importance of early impressions, planning, and the profound influence of one's environment. Subsequent sections focus on accomplishments, the joy of doing good work, and everyday virtues like patience and kindness. Waterman stresses that happiness depends on a sunny disposition and the ability to find joy in the present moment. He explores the value of 'sunshine' in one's character, suggesting that a cheerful attitude attracts friends and lightens burdens. The book also addresses the 'blues' or temporary despair, encouraging readers to maintain hope and resilience. A significant portion is dedicated to the purpose of life, challenging the notion that women are merely a handicap to success and highlighting the expanding sphere of women's work. Waterman cites historical figures like Martha Washington, Queen Victoria, and Florence Nightingale as examples of women who achieved greatness through perseverance and moral strength. Throughout, the author uses short, accessible language and frequent quotes from figures like Thoreau, Emerson, and Ruskin to reinforce his points. The work serves as both an inspirational guide and a moral compass, encouraging girls to build strong character through small, daily acts of love and duty. It concludes with a prayer for strength, kindness, and a hopeful outlook on life, asserting that the present moment is the best time to act and that the future is sufficiently alluring to cherish.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

Download URL

https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/26683.epub.noimages

Local file path

data/epubs/pg26683.epub

Download EPUB

Downloaded at

2026-07-05 22:28 UTC

Categories

• Conduct of Life
• Girls