Oldtown Folks

Oldtown Folks (1869) is a historical novel by Harriet Beecher Stowe that follows the lives of three children growing up in Oldtown, Massachusetts, after being abandoned by their father. The novel explores themes of family, faith, and perseverance and is a powerful portrait of postwar New England. This edition of the novel is a classic of American children's literature reimagined for modern readers.

Format: Hardback
Length: 530 pages
Publication date: 15 February 2022
Publisher: West Margin Press

Oldtown Folks (1869) is a historical novel by Harriet Beecher Stowe, renowned for her abolitionist masterpiece Uncle Tom's Cabin (1852). Despite achieving great success with that novel, Stowe continued to write professionally throughout her life. Oldtown Folks is a captivating tale that explores family, faith, and perseverance, showcasing Stowe's impressive imaginative range and admirable moral outlook. The story revolves around Horace Holyoke, who relocates to Oldtown, Massachusetts, with his mother after the passing of his father and brother. He resides with his grandfather, Jacob Badger, a prominent townsperson and successful miller. Horace listens to the stories of local religious figures, workers, and businesspeople who gather in the Badger family kitchen, gaining insights into the lives of the people in the town. Meanwhile, Harry and Tina Percival, siblings abandoned by their father, a British soldier who fled to England after the war, arrive in Oldtown after escaping abuse from a foster family. They are taken in by the Badgers and form a close bond with Horace. One Easter, the children accompany the local ministers wife to visit with Madame Kittery, a wealthy woman who takes an interest in Harry and Horace. She promises to support their education if they excel in school, instilling hope and opportunity in their lives. Supported by the love of their community and their extended or adopted families, the three children grow up in a nation brimming with hope and meaningful change. Stowe's novel delves into various themes, including religion, philosophy, and the importance of education. It serves as a powerful portrait of postwar New England, appealing to both children and adults. Three years after the publication of Oldtown Folks, Stowe followed it up with Oldtown Fireside Stories (1872), further adding to her literary legacy.

Dimension: 203 x 127 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781513133843