Abroad

"Abroad" by Thomas Crane and Ellen Elizabeth Houghton is a children's travel narrative written in the late 19th century. The book takes young readers on an imaginative journey across the English Channel to France, as experienced through the eyes of a family traveling from England. The work combines poetry and picturesque illustrations, creating a whimsical account of the family's adventures through various towns and cities in France. The story centers around a father and his children as they embark on an exciting trip to Paris and Normandy after the death of their mother. Accompanied by their kind teacher, Miss Earle, they pack their bags with enthusiasm and set off on a train, filled with eagerness to explore foreign lands. Throughout their travels, they visit enchanting locations like Boulogne, Rouen, and Paris, engaging in delightful activities such as enjoying local foods, visiting historical sites, and interacting with the local culture. Each chapter captures their joyful experiences and reflections, providing young readers with a charming glimpse of family bonding and discovery while emphasizing themes of curiosity and imagination. As the family completes their journey and returns home, their joyful memories of France linger in their hearts, leaving a sense of adventure and longing for future travels.