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Concerning Belinda   By: (1868-1942)

Concerning Belinda by Eleanor Hoyt Brainerd

In Eleanor Hoyt Brainerd's novel "Concerning Belinda," readers are transported to the captivating world of a young girl named Belinda Hathaway. Set in the late 1800s in rural America, this coming-of-age story follows Belinda's journey as she navigates the complexities of life, love, and societal expectations.

The narrative unfolds through a series of diary entries, allowing readers a glimpse into Belinda's inner thoughts and emotions. From the very beginning, it is evident that Belinda is a remarkably intelligent and introspective young girl. Her keen observations of the world around her, as well as her unique perspective on social issues of the time, make her a deeply relatable and endearing protagonist.

One of the most striking aspects of "Concerning Belinda" is Brainerd's exceptional ability to capture the essence and challenges of growing up during this period. Belinda's experiences range from the innocent wonder of childhood to the more nuanced concerns of adolescence, and Brainerd deftly explores these different stages of a young girl's life. Through Belinda's interactions with family, friends, and love interests, the novel delves into themes of identity, self-discovery, and the pursuit of personal happiness.

Moreover, Brainerd's vivid descriptions of the American countryside create a sense of place that feels authentic and nostalgic. The picturesque landscapes serve as a backdrop for Belinda's trials and triumphs, adding an additional layer of depth to the story.

One of the novel's other notable strengths is the cast of characters that populate Belinda's world. Each individual is intricately developed, with their own distinct personalities and motivations. From Belinda's fiercely independent Aunt Winnie to her charming yet troubled cousin Jack, the supporting characters bring an added richness to the story, constantly challenging and shaping Belinda's growth.

While "Concerning Belinda" can be viewed as a story of personal growth and empowerment, its themes also touch on broader social issues of the era, such as gender roles and societal expectations. The novel serves as a reminder of the struggles faced by women during this time, highlighting the restrictions and limitations imposed upon them. Belinda's determination to forge her own path in a world dominated by conventions provides a strong feminist undertone to the narrative.

However, despite its many strengths, the pacing of the story occasionally feels slower than desired. Some portions of the book seem to dwell on tangential details, causing the plot to lose momentum. Yet, these instances are far outweighed by the compelling character development and emotive writing style.

Overall, "Concerning Belinda" is a captivating tale that transports readers to a bygone era while remaining relevant in its exploration of universal themes. Eleanor Hoyt Brainerd's richly crafted characters, combined with her evocative prose, make this novel a delightful and thought-provoking read. As it portrays the journey of a remarkable young girl finding her place in the world, "Concerning Belinda" is sure to resonate with anyone in search of authenticity and the pursuit of personal happiness.

First Page:

CONCERNING BELINDA

BOOKS BY

ELEANOR HOYT BRAINERD

"CONCERNING BELINDA"

"NANCY'S COUNTRY CHRISTMAS AND OTHER STORIES"

"THE MISDEMEANORS OF NANCY"

[Illustration: "A gay, dimpling girl and a stalwart, handsome man were whirling down Fifth Avenue"]

CONCERNING BELINDA

BY ELEANOR HOYT BRAINERD

ILLUSTRATED BY

HARRISON FISHER AND KATHARINE N. RICHARDSON

[Illustration]

NEW YORK DOUBLEDAY, PAGE & COMPANY 1905

Copyright, 1904, 1905, by The Curtis Publishing Company

Copyright, 1905, by Doubleday, Page & Company Published, September, 1905

All rights reserved, including that of translation into foreign languages, including the Scandinavian... Continue reading book >>




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