Understood Betsy facts for kids
First Edition cover
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| Author | Dorothy Canfield Fisher |
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| Illustrator | Ada C. Williamson |
| Country | USA |
| Language | English |
| Publisher | THE CENTURY CO. |
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Publication date
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1916 |
| Media type | Print (Hardcover) |
| Pages | 272 |
| ISBN | 978-0-8050-6073-7 |
Understood Betsy is a children's novel written by Dorothy Canfield Fisher. It was first published in 1916. The book tells a heartwarming story about a young girl named Elizabeth Ann and her journey of growing up.
Contents
What is Understood Betsy About?
This classic story follows Elizabeth Ann, a nine-year-old orphan. She lives a very protected life with her father's aunt Harriet and cousin Frances in the city. Her relatives believe she is too delicate for many activities.
However, Elizabeth Ann's life changes completely. She moves to a farm in Vermont to live with her mother's family, the Putneys. Aunt Harriet and Frances always worried about the Putneys' way of raising children. They thought it was too tough.
Elizabeth Ann's New Life
On the farm, Elizabeth Ann gets a new nickname: "Betsy." She quickly learns that farm life is very different from city life. Many things Frances thought were too hard for a little girl are normal for the Putney family.
Farm Responsibilities
Betsy starts walking to school by herself. She learns to help with cooking and other chores around the house. These new duties help her become more independent and confident.
Learning New Skills
Betsy truly thrives in her new home. She learns many practical skills. She learns how to make butter and how to boil maple syrup. She also helps take care of the farm animals. Besides all her new farm tasks, Betsy still loves to read. She reads books to herself and to her new family.
A Family for Good
Later in the story, Frances comes to visit. She announces she is getting married. She also plans to "rescue" Elizabeth Ann from the Putney family. Frances expects Betsy to be unhappy and eager to leave the farm.
However, Frances is very surprised. Betsy is quite happy and content to stay with her new family. The story ends with Frances returning home. Betsy, her aunt Abigail, uncle Henry, and cousin Ann are together. They sit happily around the fireplace, knowing they will be a family forever.
