
A cozy winter evening unfolds in a bustling household where the scent of hot molasses tea fills the air and laughter echoes off the stairs. The story introduces a lively cast of children—twins, a spirited brother, and a tiny baby—each eager for the simple comforts of warmth and sweet treats. Their mother, ever attentive, orchestrates the chaos with gentle humor, turning ordinary moments into cherished family rituals.
Amid this domestic charm, the narrative turns to the daughter of a prosperous family, whose world is shaped by both privilege and expectation. As February approaches, she and her siblings prepare handmade valentines for the town’s beloved doctor, hinting at budding friendships and the subtle pressures of social standing. The opening invites listeners into a tender portrait of childhood innocence, familial love, and the quiet stirrings of a young heart learning what it means to belong.
Language
en
Duration
~8 hours (473K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Release date
2012-09-04
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1855–1938
Known for stories rooted in New England life, this American writer and educator published more than twenty novels, along with children's books and translations of German verse. Her best-known work, The Wood-Carver of 'Lympus, helped build a wide readership in the late nineteenth century.
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