Aunt Jane

"Aunt Jane" by Jennette Lee is an early 20th-century novel that introduces readers to Aunt Jane Holbrook, a kind and reasonable woman who works at the Berkeley House of Mercy. As a caretaker in the hospital, she is well-regarded by patients and colleagues for her ability to blend compassion, common sense, and wit. Aunt Jane's day-to-day life involves interacting with patients and staff. For example in one scene a curious male patient asks Aunt Jane what she's thinking, only to find that she’s contemplating something simple, like adjusting a mattress. This moment captures her character, showing how she handles the everyday tasks of the hospital while bringing peace to everyone around her. The story suggests the importance of Aunt Jane's relationship with her patients, revealing her capacity to uplift their spirits. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Aunt Jane's role is essential for her patients' physical recovery and emotional healing.