Bessie Bradford's Prize

"Bessie Bradford's Prize" by Joanna H. Mathews is a tale where the bonds of childhood friendship collide with the weight of societal and familial expectations in what seems to be the late 1800s. The story centers on girls such as Bessie Bradford and her friends, revealing their adventures through friendships while dealing with problems from their towns and families. The book begins by introducing people such as Mrs. Fleming or the Richards family and showing community ties or interactions. A notable story includes Lena, a heroic girl. As the story develops, friendship troubles, jealousy, and growing up become apparent, with the suggestion of other important topics explored inside the story.