Rhoda's education : or, Too much of a good thing.

Rhoda Bowers is a bright‑spirited girl who fills her evenings stitching tiny woolen shirts for a new baby brother while juggling endless household chores. Living with her mother in a modest home, she dreams of mastering crochet at Aunt Hannah’s, hoping the skill will give her a sense of purpose beyond the routine of the kitchen. Her curiosity about the past—particularly the orphanage she once called “The Home”—offers a glimpse of a life she barely remembers, setting the stage for a quiet, introspective coming‑of‑age.

As Rhoda navigates a household ruled by a mother whose affection feels as narrow as it is demanding, she learns to balance obedience with a budding sense of self‑worth. The story unfolds through gentle observations of family dynamics, school life, and the small triumphs that shape her character. Listeners will find a heartfelt portrait of perseverance and the simple, yet powerful, lessons that come from learning to stitch one’s own future.