Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm

This classic coming-of-age novel follows ten-year-old Rebecca Randall as she leaves her impoverished family to live with two very different maiden aunts in a strict New England household. Rebecca's irrepressible spirit and imaginative nature immediately clash with her stern Aunt Miranda's rigid expectations, while her more sentimental Aunt Jane provides a gentler counterpoint. Through seven formative years, readers witness Rebecca's journey from a spirited child into a thoughtful young woman, navigating family tensions, financial hardship, and the complex process of finding her place in the world.

What makes this enduring story remarkable is its honest portrayal of a girl's emotional development without sacrificing the protagonist's essential spark. Rebecca's growth feels authentic—she learns responsibility and consideration while maintaining her unique perspective and creative energy. Young readers navigating their own transitions will find a kindred spirit in Rebecca, whose struggles with family expectations and self-discovery remain surprisingly relevant. The novel's rich character development and emotional depth create a timeless portrait of adolescence that continues to resonate across generations.