The Light in the Clearing: A Tale of the North Country in the Time of Silas Wright

"The Light in the Clearing: A Tale of the North Country in the Time of Silas…" by Irving Bacheller explores childhood through the eyes of a young orphan named Barton Baynes in the 1830s. After suffering the loss of his parents, Bart goes to live with his Aunt Deel and Uncle Peabody, where he confronts life's harsh realities and finds his place in a small farming community. Readers are introduced to Bart and experience his fond childhood memories. The novel is an exploration of family, innocence, and difficult truths, as Bart grapples with understanding life, death, friendship, and betrayal during everyday adventures.