What Katy Did by Susan Coolidge

By Al R. Young

Even though Susan Coolidge was an American author, she is better known in England. Periodically, however, her series of Katy books comes back into print in the U.S. The first in the series, What Katy Did, is especially nice for any child confined or bedridden.

The story is a bit ambling in its beginning, but grows into a very tender, delightful story of patience, quiet heroism, and fun. Katy Carr, the eldest of the vast, motherless Carr brood, begins the story as a good-hearted, though somewhat reckless girl of twelve. Childhood adventures and anecdotes occupy the first half of the book.

Quite suddenly, however, both the book and Katy take a leap into maturity when she is seriously injured in a fall from a swing. Some may find the book preachy or contrived, but, put into its historical context, it is truly a gem. In an era in which childhood illnesses were often prolonged into weeks and months, attempts to better one's prospects and attitudes were vital.

Descriptions of Katy's attitudes, occupations, and ideas for fun, while an invalid for nearly four years, make for a sympathetic step back into the Victorian era that is inspiring as well as charming.

One caveat: Chapter 10 makes no pretensions as to the real identity of Santa Claus. You may want to read it ahead of time in order to edit your reading aloud, if necessary.