The Collected Works (ePub)

In 'The Collected Works' of Kate Douglas Wiggin, readers are presented with an aggregated treasure trove that encapsulates Wiggin's talent for blending didactic themes with amicable storytelling. This comprehensive volume captures the idyllic charm and moral undertones of 19th and early 20th-century American literature. The selection features her most renowned works, including 'Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm' and its sequels, alongside myriad stories that manifest her narrative versatility. The literary style of these works is marked by a warm, conversational prose that shepherds readers through experiences across England, Scotland, and Ireland with Penelope Hamilton, to the deep-rooted customs of New England life. This assembly truly contextualizes Wiggin's literary contributions within the broader ambit of classic children's literature and provides insight into early feminist and reformist perspectives that permeate her writing.

Kate Douglas Wiggin (1856-1923), an American educator, and author, weaves through her collected stories not just fanciful plots but also the threads of her progressive and humanist beliefs. The kernel of Wiggin's writing ethos flowered from her innovative contributions to childhood education and her avid activism for children's rights. Her experiences as a pioneering founder of free kindergartens in San Francisco are intertwined with her storytelling. This holistic compilation unearths the depth and breadth of her oeuvre, revealing how her advocacy and educational philosophies found voice in literature that appealed to both young and mature audiences alike.

'The Collected Works' of Kate Douglas Wiggin is a quintessential addition to any literary collection, inviting readers to indulge in the nostalgia of simpler times while contemplating the underlying societal commentaries. It is recommended for those who cherish the historical tapestry of American literature and aspire to understand the development of children's literature. It offers a journey not just into the innocence and travails of its youthful protagonists but also into the progressive mindset of an author who envisioned a more equitable society for the less heard voices of her time. This collection serves both as a testament to Wiggin's literary prowess and a beacon of her lifelong commitment to childhood welfare and education.