
STRAY THOUGHTS FOR GIRLS
L. H. M. SOULSBY
DEDICATED TO - GIRLS AT THE "AWKWARD AGE."
PREFACE
PREFACE TO NEW EDITION
LINES WRITTEN ON BEING TOLD THAT A LADY WAS "PLAIN AND COMMONPLACE" - THE VIRTUOUS WOMAN - MAKING PLANS - CONVERSATION - AUNT RACHEL; OR, OLD MAIDS' CHILDREN - "GET UP, M. LE COMTE!" - A FRIDAY LESSON - A HOME ART; OR, MOTHERS AND DAUGHTERS - ESPRIT DE CORPS - ROUGH NOTES OF A LESSON - HOLIDAYS - SUNDAY - FRIENDSHIP AND LOVE - A GOOD TIME
LINES - WRITTEN ON BEING TOLD THAT A LADY WAS "PLAIN AND COMMONPLACE."
THE END. - WORKS BY L. H. M. SOULSBY
A warm and thoughtful companion for girls caught between childhood and adulthood, this collection offers gentle, often poetic counsel for the “awkward age” that many experience between thirteen and twenty‑seven. Through a blend of personal reflections and quiet humor, the author acknowledges the uncertainties of finding one’s place while encouraging self‑kindness and practical confidence. The tone feels like a kindly mentor speaking directly to the reader, urging her to trust her instincts even when the world asks puzzling questions.
The volume is organized into short, accessible essays on everyday topics such as making plans, carrying on lively conversation, the rhythm of a Sunday, and the subtle art of friendship and first love. Interspersed with verses and modest anecdotes, the advice is grounded in everyday experience rather than lofty doctrine, making it easy to apply to school life, family duties, or budding independence. Listeners will find a steady, encouraging voice that helps turn ordinary moments into stepping stones toward a fuller, more assured self.
Language
en
Duration
~4 hours (259K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Release date
2005-01-13
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1856–1927
Best remembered as a formidable girls’ school headmistress, she mixed sharp intelligence with strong convictions and left a distinct mark on education in Oxford. Her writing reflects the same brisk, confident spirit that made her both admired and controversial.
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