The story follows the adventures of a young girl named Lloyd Sherman, who attends boarding school in Kentucky. Lloyd is a spoiled and entitled child who struggles to adapt to the strict rules and discipline of the school. She clashes with her roommate and classmates, but eventually learns valuable lessons about responsibility, hard work, and friendship. Themes: The novel explores themes of independence, self-discovery, and growth through challenges. Lloyd's experiences at boarding school serve as a catalyst for her personal development and maturation. Symbolism: The boarding school represents a microcosm of society, with its own rules, hierarchies, and power structures. The novel uses the setting to explore the tensions between individuality and conformity, and the importance of finding one's place in the world. Character Analysis: Lloyd Sherman is the protagonist and central character of the novel. She is a complex and dynamic figure, driven by both her own desires and the expectations of those around her. Her struggles with authority and her desire for independence are relatable and endearing, making her a compelling character. Motifs: The motif of nature and the outdoors plays a significant role in the novel. Lloyd's experiences in the woods and on the farm serve as a contrast to the strictures of boarding school, highlighting the importance of freedom and self-expression. Style and Language: Johnston's writing style is descriptive and evocative, with vivid depictions of the Kentucky landscape and its inhabitants. The language is simple yet effective, allowing the reader to easily visualize and connect with the story. Overall, The Little Colonel at Boarding-School is a heartwarming and thought-provoking novel that explores themes of identity, growth, and self-discovery. Lloyd's experiences serve as a reminder of the importance of embracing challenges and finding one's place in the world.
By Annie Fellows Johnston · First published 1909 · Genre: Children's Literature, Coming-of-Age, Adventure · 16 chapters