The New-Year's Bargain

"The New-Year's Bargain" by Susan Coolidge is a children's novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around two young children, Max and Thekla, who live in a secluded cottage in the Black Forest. As the Old Year prepares to depart, they encounter a mysterious old man named Old Time, who introduces them to the months personified, setting the stage for a whimsical adventure centered on time and seasonal tales. At the start of the tale, on a wintry day, the children gather firewood in the forest when they come upon Old Time and his clay figures representing the twelve months. After a conversation with Old Time, Max steals some of the "sand of time," leading to a comical and chaotic encounter with the personified months who demand restitution. Max proposes a bargain where each month would visit them, share a story, and present gifts in exchange for their moments. This charming setup promises further adventures that intertwine lessons about time, the seasons, and the importance of gratitude and responsibility, making it an engaging read for young audiences.