The Wide Awake Girls in Winsted

Catherine Smith returns to her hometown of Winsted for a long‑awaited summer, eager to prove herself worthy of the parents who have long been pillars of the community. Fresh from a year at college, she wrestles with the delicate task of crafting an Alma Mater song that will capture both youthful enthusiasm and the deeper affection of alumni. As she settles on the porch of her family’s home, the quiet of the town invites her to turn thoughts into verses, even as her shy nature makes the effort feel daunting.

Beyond the notebook, Catherine discovers that service can take many forms. Inspired by the bustling lives of her friends and the quirky presence of the ever‑present Algernon, she begins to envision a public library—a place where the town’s children might gather, read, and share ideas. The early days are filled with hopeful plans, small setbacks, and the warm camaraderie of neighbors rallying around a common cause, setting the stage for a summer of growth, friendship, and the quiet power of words.