The Empire Annual for Girls, 1911

"The Empire Annual for Girls, 1911," edited by A. R. Buckland, is a collection of short stories and articles written in the early 20th century. This anthology is aimed at young girls, featuring narratives that explore themes of adventure, personal growth, and social responsibility. The contributions come from various authors, each offering unique insights meant to inspire and educate the daughters of the Empire. At the start of the annual, the story "The Christmas Child" introduces us to a group of siblings grappling with the meaning of Christmas amid their family's financial limitations. Peg, one of the sisters, passionately asserts her love for the holiday and proposes a surprise visit to their friends, the Revells, stirring excitement amongst her siblings. The preparation for this journey takes a turn when they encounter an unexpected detour due to their car's mechanical failure. This event leads the sisters to stumble upon a lonely household set for a meager Christmas dinner, prompting them to take an act of kindness by secretly providing a festive hamper. This opening sets the tone for a celebration of generosity and the true spirit of Christmas, emphasizing the importance of selfless service to others.