Two Little Women on a Holiday by Carolyn Wells

Two Little Women on a Holiday” by Carolyn Wells is a delightful children’s book first published in 1916.

It tells the story of two young girls, Betsy and Tacy, who go on a summer vacation with their families to a beautiful seaside resort town called Ocean Point.

The book is set in the early 20th century and provides a fascinating glimpse into the lives of children during that time. The author, Carolyn Wells, was a prolific writer of children’s books, mysteries, and poetry, and her skill at storytelling is evident in this charming tale.

The book begins with Betsy and Tacy eagerly anticipating their upcoming vacation. They dream of all the fun things they will do at the beach, such as swimming, building sandcastles, and collecting seashells. When they arrive at Ocean Point, they are thrilled to discover that their families have rented adjoining cottages, and they immediately begin exploring their new surroundings.

As the days go by, Betsy and Tacy have a wonderful time at the beach. They make new friends, play games, and take long walks along the shore. They also have a few mishaps, such as getting lost in the woods and accidentally setting fire to a picnic table, but these only add to the excitement of their adventure.

One of the highlights of their trip is a visit to a nearby island called Little Women Island. This island is named after the book “Little Women” by Louisa May Alcott, which Betsy and Tacy love. On the island, they meet a girl named Tib, who lives there with her family. Tib becomes fast friends with Betsy and Tacy, and the three girls have a wonderful time exploring the island and imagining themselves as the characters from “Little Women.”

Another memorable experience for Betsy and Tacy is a trip to a nearby amusement park. They ride the Ferris wheel, the rollercoaster, and the carousel, and even get to try their luck at some of the carnival games. The excitement and thrill of the amusement park make for a wonderful day, and Betsy and Tacy are sad when it’s time to leave.

Throughout the book, Betsy and Tacy’s friendship is the cornerstone of the story. They support each other through thick and thin, and their bond grows stronger with each passing day. Their interactions are charming, and their conversations are full of humor and wit. The author does an excellent job of capturing the spirit of childhood friendships and the sense of adventure and wonder that comes with being a child.

In addition to Betsy and Tacy’s story, the book also provides a fascinating glimpse into the culture and customs of the early 20th century. The girls wear long dresses and bloomers, carry parasols, and ride in horse-drawn carriages. The book is full of charming details about the period, such as descriptions of the cottages they stay in, the food they eat, and the entertainment they enjoy.

Overall, “Two Little Women on a Holiday” is a delightful book that will enchant both children and adults. It is a timeless story about friendship, adventure, and the joys of childhood, and it provides a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era. Carolyn Wells’ writing is charming, witty, and full of heart, making this book a true classic of children’s literature.