Bessie in the City

"Bessie in the City" by Joanna H. Mathews is a heartwarming children's story that shows us the lives of two sisters, Maggie and Bessie Bradford, after their summer vacation ends. Centered on family, friendship, and being a good kid, the story shows both their dreams and what they plan to do, especially their goal of making money to assist others. The book starts with Maggie and Bessie having an exciting conversation just after they return from their summer trip, and Maggie says she wishes she had an important flaw so people would worry and support her, which alludes to their shared hope of collecting money for a mission library. Like people in real life, the kids truly care about others, their plans to earn money, and their friendships with people like Mr. Hall, who has a big heart and is one of their closest friends. This sets the scene for a sweet story where the sisters' kindess is key, welcoming readers into their cute world.