The day my father said I had to leave our paradise changed my life forever.
Looking back, I can still see my ten-year-old self, sitting in shock as I realized I was to set off for the unknown world of an English boarding school. How could he send me away? I loved our South American home, the bright tropical flowers, and the dazzling blue sea.
What I didn't know and couldn't understand was all that lay ahead. It wasn't just the music, sewing, or languages I would learn to become a proper young lady. There were school girl adventures and friendships I could never have if I stayed behind. And so I set off, never imagining the person I would become.
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1001 Children's Books You Must Read Before You Grow Up, The Fortunes of Philippa
is a lovely example of Angela Brazil's schoolgirl books, highly popular in her day but banned by some boarding schools for being a poor influence on the moral standards of the day. (Brazil was among the earliest British writers to write in order to entertain, and not instruct the reader morally, and books like Harry Potter can trace their lineage to Brazil's influence; see the Smidgen Press blog for more details.)
This sweet story, inspired by the life of Brazil's own mother, will take you back in time to Edwardian England, a time before world wars, a time when young girls embraced the joy of life. Reminiscent of Frances Hodgson Burnett's
A Little Princess
, you'll find Philippa's adventures full of fun and laughter, a ready escape from 21st century troubles.
Beautifully re-typeset and formatted for modern e-readers, this gorgeous edition will add to the charm of your book collection.