Elizabeth, Betsy, and Bess—schoolmates

"Elizabeth, Betsy, and Bess—Schoolmates" by Amy Ella Blanchard is a children's novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows three schoolgirl friends—Elizabeth, Betsy, and Bess—as they navigate their school days, friendships, and imaginative adventures. The narrative provides a glimpse into childhood experiences, friendships, and the dynamics of young girls in a school setting, filled with creativity and the anticipation of holidays. The opening of the story sets a warm and cheerful tone as it introduces the schoolroom where Miss Jewett, the teacher, engages her students by decorating the classroom for Thanksgiving. The girls, particularly Elizabeth, share their admiration for their teacher's talents and express their excitement for the upcoming holiday. As the girls enjoy a lunch together, they reflect on their friendships, personal experiences, and the dynamics within their small group. This portion establishes their personalities and the foundations of their relationships, hinting at the kind of playful yet heartfelt interactions that will likely characterize the rest of the narrative.