
A bleak, snow‑laden winter sets the stage for Mavis, a frail but determined girl, as she battles a bout of bronchitis while confined to her bedroom at the boarding school. The story captures the quiet drama of her daily life—cozy fires, a wall of family photographs, and a vivid watercolor that offers a glimpse of a brighter, greener world beyond the grey rooftops. With her sister Merle bustling in from school, the sisters share moments of warmth, humor, and the occasional teasing, providing a comforting contrast to the harsh weather outside.
Through lively schoolroom scenes and the camaraderie of classmates, the novel explores the joys and trials of growing up in a close‑knit community. Mavis learns to face her illness with courage, inspired by her family’s encouragement and the spirited antics of her peers. The narrative paints a lively portrait of friendship, resilience, and the simple pleasures that make a “fortunate term” unforgettable.
Language
en
Duration
~6 hours (379K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Release date
2011-05-10
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1869–1947
A hugely popular writer of school stories, she helped shape the modern girls’ boarding-school novel with lively plots, friendships, pranks, and a stronger sense of independence than earlier books in the genre. Her stories were beloved by young readers in the early 20th century and remained widely read for years afterward.
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