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The Parent's Assistant   By: (1767-1849)

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The Parent's Assistant by Maria Edgeworth is a delightful collection of short stories that offers valuable lessons for both parents and children. Set in 18th-century England, these tales provide a window into the daily lives and challenges faced by families of the time.

What makes this book particularly noteworthy is Edgeworth's ability to address important topics, such as honesty, friendship, perseverance, and kindness, within the context of engaging narratives. Each story presents a moral dilemma or a character flaw that requires resolution and growth. Through well-crafted storytelling, Edgeworth imparts essential life lessons without being preachy or didactic.

One of the standout stories is "Lazy Lawrence," which follows a young boy named Lawrence who is constantly trying to avoid any kind of work. As the narrative progresses, Lawrence learns the value of hard work and the satisfaction that comes with accomplishing tasks. This particular story serves as a wonderful allegory to teach children the importance of diligence and a strong work ethic.

Another compelling story is "The Orphans," which introduces us to Rosamond and Lilia, two sisters who are left destitute after the death of their parents. Edgeworth skillfully portrays the strength and resilience of these young girls as they navigate the challenges of finding shelter, food, and family support. This story not only showcases the resourcefulness of the protagonists but also imparts important lessons about empathy, perseverance, and the importance of family bonds.

What truly shines in The Parent's Assistant is the author's understanding of both the adult and child perspectives. Edgeworth provides well-rounded characters who grapple with their own flaws and biases, while the children in the stories are portrayed as intelligent and capable individuals. This nuanced approach to character development adds depth and authenticity to the narratives, making them relatable for readers of all ages.

Overall, The Parent's Assistant stands as a timeless collection of tales that remains relevant even in our modern world. Edgeworth's skillful blend of storytelling with moral education is a testament to her understanding of human nature and her ability to impart these lessons with humor and compassion. For parents seeking to instill important values in their children through engaging literature, Maria Edgeworth's The Parent's Assistant is an invaluable addition to any library.

First Page:

THE PARENT'S ASSISTANT OR STORIES FOR CHILDREN

by Maria Edgeworth

Preface Addressed to Parents.

Our great lexicographer, in his celebrated eulogium on Dr. Watts, thus speaks in commendation of those productions which he so successfully penned for the pleasure and instruction of the juvenile portion of the community.

"For children," says Dr. Johnson, "he condescended to lay aside the philosopher, the scholar, and the wit, to write little poems of devotion, and systems of instruction adapted to their wants and capacities, from the dawn of reason to its gradation of advance in the morning of life. Every man acquainted with the common principles of human action, will look with veneration on the writer, who is at one time combating Locke, and at another time making a catechism for CHILDREN IN THEIR FOURTH YEAR. A voluntary descent from the dignity of science is perhaps the hardest lesson which humility can teach."

It seems, however, no very easy task to write for children. Those only who have been interested in the education of a family, who have patiently followed children through the first processes of reasoning, who have daily watched over their thoughts and feelings those only who know with what ease and rapidity the early association of ideas are formed, on which the future taste, character and happiness depend, can feel the dangers and difficulties of such an undertaking... Continue reading book >>




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