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Cover of A Girl of To-day

A Girl of To-day

Written by Ellinor Davenport Adams

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About this book

"A Girl of To-day" by Ellinor Davenport Adams is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around siblings Frances and Austin Morland as they return to their new home in the village of Woodend after Frances's time at a prestigious girls' school. The narrative explores their close bond, the dynamics of their new surroundings, and Frances's eagerness to engage with her peers and contribute positively to her new community. The opening of the novel introduces readers to the spirited and healthy fourteen-year-old Frances, who is excited to reunite with her brother Austin after her schooling. We see their affectionate relationship as they tease and support each other during their walk to their new home. As they arrive in Woodend, the narrative hints at Frances’s intention to become an active participant in village life, particularly through her enthusiasm for helping the poor, which suggests themes of altruism and community involvement that will likely unfold as the story progresses. The characters’ interactions and introductions to the villagers set the stage for both personal growth and social responsibility in the context of their new life.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in A Girl of To-day, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 9 hours
  • intermediate
  • uplifting
  • wholesome
  • earnest

Ellinor Davenport Adams's "A Girl of To-day" introduces Frances Morland, a spirited fourteen-year-old, as she returns from a prestigious girls' school to her new village home in Woodend, accompanied by her affectionate brother Austin. The novel chronicles Frances's eager immersion into her new community, driven by a strong desire to contribute positively, particularly through altruistic endeavors. It explores the profound bond between the siblings and Frances's journey of personal growth as she navigates the social dynamics and responsibilities of village life. The narrative sets the stage for a story steeped in themes of community involvement, social responsibility, and the development of a young woman finding her place and purpose in the late 19th century.

“"To-day is for action, Austin! Not for idle dreams, but for making a difference right here in Woodend."”

Key themes

Community and Social Responsibility
The novel deeply explores the individual's role within a community and the responsibility one has towards its well-being. Frances's eagerness to engage with Woodend and help its less fortunate members drives much of the plot, examining the practicalities and ethical considerations of social action in a late 19th-century village.
Personal Growth and Coming of Age
As a fourteen-year-old embarking on a new life, Frances undergoes significant personal development. Her journey from youthful idealism to a more mature understanding of the world and her place within it forms the core of her character arc, encompassing lessons in humility, perseverance, and emotional intelligence.
Altruism and the Nature of Charity
Frances's deep enthusiasm for helping the poor provides a lens through which the novel examines different facets of altruism. It likely contrasts simplistic, well-meaning gestures with more profound, sustained, and thoughtful approaches to charity, exploring what it truly means to be helpful.

Worth discussing

How does Frances's initial idealism about helping the poor evolve throughout the story? What lessons does she learn about charity and social responsibility?

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