Self-Denial; or, Alice Wood, and Her Missionary Society

"Self-Denial; or, Alice Wood, and Her Missionary Society" by the American Sunday-School Union is a children's novel written in the late 19th century. The book revolves around themes of altruism, self-denial, and community service as it tells the story of a young girl, Alice Wood, and her efforts to form a missionary society aimed at helping those less fortunate. Through her initiatives, the narrative highlights the importance of charity, the power of collective action, and the impact that small sacrifices can have on a larger scale. The story begins with Alice's inspiration from a missionary meeting, where she learns about the dire conditions of people in other countries who are unaware of God and the Bible. Motivated to make a difference, Alice gathers her classmates to form a sewing society, where they can create items to sell and raise money for missionary work. Each girl shares her own ideas for saving and earning money, emphasizing the value of self-denial for a greater cause. As the story progresses, the group's dedication to their mission not only fosters camaraderie and creativity but also transforms their personal habits as they renounce unnecessary expenditures. The book serves as both an entertaining and moral tale, encouraging young readers to consider how their actions can contribute positively to the world around them.