A Princess in Calico   By: Edith Ferguson Black (1857-1936)

A Princess in Calico by Edith Ferguson Black is a delightful and heartwarming tale set in the charming town of Calico. The story follows the journey of a young girl named Emily, who unexpectedly finds herself swept up in a world of royalty and adventure.

From the very first page, the author skillfully brings Calico to life with vivid descriptions of its picturesque landscapes, quaint streets, and friendly inhabitants. The sense of place is so palpable that readers will instantly feel like they are walking alongside Emily as she explores the town.

One of the most endearing aspects of this book is the way it captures the essence of childhood innocence and imagination. Through Emily's eyes, we experience the sheer wonder and excitement of stumbling upon a hidden kingdom and discovering that she is, in fact, a long-lost princess. Black beautifully portrays the enchantment and awe that comes with such a revelation, allowing readers of all ages to get lost in the magic.

Another strength of this book lies in its well-developed characters. Emily is an incredibly likeable and relatable protagonist, with her curiosity, courage, and unwavering determination. As she navigates the unfamiliar world of royalty, she faces countless challenges and learns important lessons about friendship, loyalty, and the true meaning of family. The supporting cast is equally memorable, with each character bringing their own distinct personality and role to the story.

The pacing of the narrative is fast-paced and engaging, making it difficult to put the book down. Black expertly weaves together moments of adventure, mystery, and heartfelt emotions, creating a perfect balance that keeps readers hooked until the very end. The concise yet descriptive writing style adds to the overall enjoyment, allowing readers to immerse themselves fully in the captivating story.

While A Princess in Calico is primarily targeted towards younger readers, its thoughtful storytelling and universal themes make it a book that can be appreciated by readers of all ages. Black reminds us of the timeless power of imagination and the importance of embracing the purity of childhood dreams.

In conclusion, A Princess in Calico is a charming tale that will leave readers feeling uplifted and inspired. With its enchanting setting, memorable characters, and heartfelt message, this book is a true gem that deserves a place on every bookshelf. Whether you are a young reader discovering the magic of stories or an adult yearning for a nostalgic journey back to childhood, this book is sure to captivate your heart.

First Page:

She stood at her bedroom window before going downstairs to take up the burden of a new day. She was just seventeen, but they did not keep any account of anniversaries at Hickory Farm. The sun had given her a loving glance as he lifted his bright old face above the horizon, but her father was too busy and careworn to remember, and, since her mother had gone away, there was no one else. She had read of the birthdays of other girls, full of strange, sweet surprises, and tender thoughts but those were girls with mothers. A smile like a stray beam of sunshine drifted over her troubled young face, at the thought of the second Mrs Harding stopping for one instant in her round of ponderous toil to note the fact that one of her family had reached another milestone in life's journey... Continue reading book >>