The Little Dog Trusty; The Orange Man; and the Cherry Orchard; Being the Tenth Part of Early Lessons (1801)   By: Maria Edgeworth (1767-1849)

In "The Little Dog Trusty; The Orange Man; and the Cherry Orchard; Being the Tenth Part of Early Lessons" by Maria Edgeworth, readers are transported to a delightful world of moral tales and valuable life lessons. This collection of stories, written in 1801, showcases Edgeworth's unique storytelling ability and her knack for teaching important values to young readers.

The book begins with "The Little Dog Trusty," a heartwarming story that follows the adventures of a loyal dog named Trusty. Through Trusty's devotion to his young master, readers learn about the significance of loyalty, friendship, and the importance of standing by loved ones during times of hardship. Edgeworth's vivid descriptions and engaging language draw readers into Trusty's world, making it easy to relate to and root for this lovable canine protagonist.

Next, we are introduced to "The Orange Man," a cautionary tale that teaches children the virtues of honesty and hard work. The story revolves around a young boy named Charles, who learns a valuable lesson about the consequences of taking shortcuts and deceiving others. Through Charles' misguided attempts to steal oranges, Edgeworth cleverly demonstrates the importance of integrity, and the harmful effects that dishonesty can have on one's reputation.

Lastly, "The Cherry Orchard" tells the story of two young sisters, Laura and Maria, as they navigate the challenges of sibling rivalry and the virtues of kindness and forgiveness. As the girls learn to appreciate and share their prized cherry orchard, Edgeworth imparts important lessons about the power of empathy, compromise, and the rewards of selflessness.

Throughout the book, Edgeworth's writing style remains accessible, engaging, and rich with moral undertones. She effortlessly weaves important life lessons into captivating narratives, never coming across as preachy or didactic. Her relatable characters and relatable situations ensure that young readers will not only enjoy the stories, but also understand and internalize the valuable teachings within.

"The Little Dog Trusty; The Orange Man; and the Cherry Orchard" by Maria Edgeworth is a timeless collection that continues to resonate with readers today. Its messages of loyalty, honesty, and kindness remain as relevant as ever, making it an essential addition to any child's library. Edgeworth's ability to entertain, educate, and inspire through her stories is a testament to her talent as a writer, and this book is a true gem of children's literature.

First Page:

Whenever Frank did any thing wrong, he always told his father and mother of it; and when any body asked him about any thing which he had done or said, he always told the truth; so that every body who knew him, believed him: but nobody who knew his brother Robert, believed a word which he said, because he used to tell lies... Continue reading book >>