Hildegarde's Neighbors

"Hildegarde's Neighbors" by Laura Elizabeth Howe Richards is a captivating children's story from the late 1800s that follows young Hildegarde Grahame as she eagerly awaits the arrival of the Merryweather family next door. The story has loveable characters like Hildegarde's mom and the quirky Colonel Ferrers, and explores themes of friendship and discovery, highlighting all the fun and mischief that happens as Hildegarde gets to know the Merryweather kids. At the start, Hildegarde is overjoyed and tells her mother about the family moving in, which leads to some funny and cheerful conversations. Hildegarde describes her first look at the Merryweathers, including their funny-named children, like Obadiah and Toots. As the story continues, Hildegarde's sharp observations show how much she wants to connect with her new neighbors, and her excitement suggests the friendships and adventures to come. The story sets the scene for a wonderful look at community and friendship as Hildegarde makes connections with the Merryweather siblings, and promises readers a charming story full of youthful excitement and the happiness of having good neighbors.