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Martha By-the-Day   By: (1864-)

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Martha By-the-Day by Julie Mathilde Lippmann is a remarkable piece of historical fiction that takes readers on a captivating journey through the streets of early 20th century New York City. Set during a time when child labor was tragically prevalent, this novel sheds light on the harsh realities faced by countless children like Martha.

The story revolves around Martha, a young girl who becomes an unlikely caregiver for a wealthy family's children. Despite her tender age, Martha shows incredible strength, resilience, and a fierce determination to provide a better life for herself and those around her. Throughout the book, readers witness Martha's growth as she faces various challenges and navigates the complexities of her newfound responsibilities.

Lippmann's writing style is a true delight, effortlessly transporting readers to a bygone era. The vivid descriptions of the bustling city, coupled with rich historical details, vividly bring the story to life. From crowded tenements to opulent mansions, the stark contrasts of the era are tangible, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in Martha's world.

The characterization in this novel is equally impressive. Martha, a character whose strength, resilience, and kindness shine through every page, is impossible not to root for. Lippmann captures the essence of Martha's spirit, making her relatable and endearing. Supporting characters are also well-developed, each bringing their own unique perspective and contributing to the richness of the narrative.

One of the strengths of Martha By-the-Day is its ability to tackle serious social issues. It effectively highlights the injustices faced by child laborers and sheds light on the dark underbelly of society during that time. Through Martha's eyes, readers see the struggles of immigrant families, the desperation of poverty, and the need for change. This novel serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience and determination of those who fought for a better future.

There is an undercurrent of hope throughout the book, despite the hardships faced by Martha and others. The author masterfully weaves together themes of love, friendship, and perseverance, making for a truly inspiring read. Martha's journey is not only a personal one but also an allegory for the triumph of the human spirit.

Overall, Martha By-the-Day is a captivating novel that offers both an engaging story and important social commentary. Lippmann's beautiful prose, well-crafted characters, and meticulous attention to historical detail make this book an absolute must-read for any fan of historical fiction. It is a poignant reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the power of compassion in the face of adversity.

First Page:

MARTHA BY THE DAY

By JULIE M. LIPPMANN

1912

CHAPTER I

If you are one of the favored few, privileged to ride in chaises, you may find the combination of Broadway during the evening rush hour, in a late November storm, stimulating you may, that is, provided you have a reliable driver. If, contrariwise, you happen to be of the class whose fate it is to travel in public conveyances (and lucky if you have the price!) and the car, say, won't stop for you why

Claire Lang had been standing in the drenching wet at the street crossing for fully ten minutes. The badgering crowd had been shouldering her one way, pushing her the other, until, being a stranger and not very big, she had become so bewildered that she lost her head completely, and, with the blind impulse of a hen with paresis, darted straight out, in amidst the crush of traffic, with all the chances strong in favor of her being instantly trampled under foot, or ground under wheel, and never a one to know how it had happened.

An instant, and she was back again in her old place upon the curbstone. Something like the firm iron grip of a steam derrick had fastened on her person, hoisted her neatly up, and set her as precisely down, exactly where she had started from... Continue reading book >>




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