Classic Children’s Books: Rebecca Of Sunnybrook Farm

Cheerful, witty, refreshing, inspiring… Such is the charm of the American classic, ‘Rebecca Of Sunnybrook Farm’ that has entertained countless readers of all ages for several generations.

Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm (1903)

Author: Kate Douglas Wiggins

Written by Kate Douglas Wiggins, this novel focuses on the journey of a girl who must adjust to every unfavorable circumstance and follow her dreams to become an educated, independent woman.

The novel opens with the journey of Rebecca Rowen Randall on a stage coach to Riverboro where she’s on her way to begin a new lifestyle. Unfortunately her new life is rife with disappointment and she is forced to accustom herself to the harsh discipline and rude behavior of her aunt, Miranda Sawyer.

A delightful conversation between Rebecca and her stage coach driver, Jeremiah Cobb, occurs place when she tells him about her family and her farm, which she lovingly calls ” Sunnybrook”. After reaching Riverboro, Rebecca receives a very cold welcome from her Aunt.

As the story progresses, Rebecca is often taunted and criticized by her aunt, Miranda, who believes she needs to be disciplined. Faced with such disheartening circumstances, Rebecca puts all her efforts into her education and, in no time, succeeds in winning the hearts of her teachers.

On one hand, Rebecca has to confront the harsh nature of her aunt Miranda, but on the other hand, she benefits from the kindly guidance of her friend, Jeremiah Cobb, who motivates her to stay in Riverboro, and get a proper education.

Rebecca sees the bright side of things and decides to achieve her ambitions so that she can shoulder the responsibility of her family which is burdened by debt. Even though Miranda is strict towards Rebecca, she does take care to see that Rebecca gets everything she needs for her education.

Shirley Temple in Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm

Shirley Temple in the 1938 movie adaptation of Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm

Does Rebecca succeed in winning the heart of her aunt, Miranda, and what becomes of her aunt eventually? Who is Adam Ladd and what role does he play in bringing Rebecca’s dreams to reality? Turn on the pages of this book and discover the inspiring, unforgettable saga of a girl for whom her dreams and goals are everything.

I bought this novel randomly from a bookstore and it unexpectedly it turned out be a great classic that is very unique, refreshing and readable. I hope they turn the old movie adaptation, starring Shirley Temple, into a brand new motion picture someday – perhaps with a great star cast like Meryl Streep playing role of Miranda, Anna Hathaway as Rebecca and Robin Williams as Jeremiah Cobb.

If you enjoy reading this novel, you’d also enjoy other great stories like Heidi, Captains Courageous, Little Women, Huckleberry Finn. Though the novel is written for girls, it will be appreciated by readers of all ages. Gift this book to your daughter and Rebecca’s warmth and determined nature will definitely touch your daughter’s heart.

© Prashant Badiger

Prashant Badiger is a web content writer and copywriter working in a media company based in Mumbai. He has contributed promotional web pages and articles to many websites and also writes reviews of works of literature and technology-based articles on his blog. Published works: www.logolabs.com

Discuss this article with other parents on Facebook and Twitter.

Additional resources:

Inspirational Kids Stories: Stories For Kids With A Moral – Teach your kids life’s values through the stories of this ebook. Contains messages guaranteed to nurture and inspire your children, from being kind to animals to ‘don’t talk to strangers’ and loving your parents.
Free Ebook: The 7 Secrets of Sharing The Law of Attraction With Kids and Teens – Discover life-changing techniques that will bring even more love and joy to your family and learn the secrets to making a profound difference with your kids right now.