88 pages • 2 hours read
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242
Novel • Fiction
London, England • 1900s
1905
Middle grade
8-12 years
In Frances Hodgson Burnett's A Little Princess, Sara Crewe, a wealthy and imaginative girl, is enrolled in a boarding school in England after being raised in India by her loving father. When her father dies and loses his fortune, Sara becomes impoverished and is mistreated by the schoolmistress, Miss Minchin, but her kindness and resilience help her through hardships until an unexpected benefactor changes her fate. The book includes themes of child labor and parental loss.
Heartwarming
Inspirational
Bittersweet
Nostalgic
Contemplative
317,512 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
A Little Princess by Frances Hodgson Burnett is a beloved classic praised for its compelling narrative and strong moral lessons. Readers admire Sara Crewe's resilience and kindness. However, some find the plot predictable and the portrayal of class distinctions outdated. Overall, it is celebrated for its heartwarming tale and enduring timelessness.
A reader who enjoys A Little Princess by Frances Hodgson Burnett likely appreciates classic children's literature featuring themes of resilience, imagination, and kindness. They might also enjoy titles like Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery and The Secret Garden by Burnett herself, which cater to similar sensibilities.
317,512 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Captain Ralph Crewe
Captain Ralph Crewe is Sara's young and wealthy father who adores and pampers her. He is a British army officer stationed in India and sends Sara to England for her schooling.
Miss Minchin
Miss Maria Minchin is the schoolmistress of the seminary with a cold demeanor and a focus on wealth, often clashing with Sara's unique and intelligent nature.
Miss Amelia Minchin
Miss Amelia Minchin is the timid and obedient younger sister of Miss Minchin, often overshadowed by her domineering sibling but eventually confronts her over mistreatment of Sara.
Lavinia Herbert
Lavinia Herbert is a nearly 13-year-old student at the seminary who becomes envious of Sara’s clothing and leadership, often acting spitefully towards her.
Ermengarde St. John
Ermengarde is a pupil at the seminary who struggles with academics but becomes one of Sara's close friends due to Sara's kindness and empathy.
Lottie Legh
Lottie is the youngest pupil at the seminary, who often cries due to missing her mother, and finds comfort in Sara’s nurturing presence.
Becky
Becky is the young scullery maid at the seminary, befriended by Sara, who helps her through her storytelling and kindness.
The Large Family (The Carmichaels)
The Carmichaels are a warm and prosperous family noticed by Sara, who feels a connection to their joyful lifestyle.
Ram Dass
Ram Dass is Mr. Carrisford's sensitive and courteous Indian man-servant who becomes a secret benefactor to Sara.
Mr. Carrisford
Mr. Carrisford, also known as the "Indian Gentleman," lives next to the seminary and unknowingly becomes a friend and benefactor to Sara.
Anne
Anne is a hungry child whom Sara meets outside a bakery, representing those less fortunate whom Sara tries to help despite her own struggles.
242
Novel • Fiction
London, England • 1900s
1905
Middle grade
8-12 years
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