Goody Two-Shoes facts for kids

1888 cover

The History of Little Goody Two-Shoes is a famous children's book. It was first published in London way back in 1765 by John Newbery. This story is about a kind, poor orphan girl who only has one shoe.

The Story of Goody Two-Shoes

The book tells the tale of a young girl named Margery Meanwell. She is very poor and has lost her parents. She only owns one shoe. One day, a kind, rich man sees her and gives her a brand new pair of shoes. Margery is so happy and excited that she keeps saying, "Two shoes! Two shoes!" Because of this, people start calling her "Goody Two-Shoes." The word "Goody" was an old way to say "Mrs." or "Miss" for a good woman.

Margery's Journey

Margery is very smart and loves to learn. Even though she was poor, she worked hard to get an education. She eventually becomes a teacher. She helps other poor children learn to read and write. She shows them how important it is to be kind and honest. Later in her life, she marries a rich widower. A widower is a man whose wife has died.

What "Goody Two-Shoes" Means Today

The name "Goody Two-Shoes" has become a common phrase. It is often used to describe someone who is very good and always follows the rules. Sometimes, it can be used to tease someone who is too perfect or always tries to please others. But in the book, Margery is truly a good person who helps others.

Who Wrote the Book?

It is not fully known who wrote The History of Little Goody Two-Shoes. Some people believe it was written by the famous Irish writer Oliver Goldsmith. Others think that John Newbery, the publisher, wrote it himself. No matter who wrote it, the book has been loved by children for hundreds of years. It teaches important lessons about kindness, hard work, and helping others.

Images for kids

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  A woodcut of the eponymous Goody Two-Shoes from the 1768 edition of the novel