In Doublet and Hose: A Story for Girls

"In Doublet and Hose: A Story for Girls" by Lucy Foster Madison is a historical fiction about a brave girl named Francis Stafford, who lived in the late 1500s, and is about her challenging the typical roles for girls at that time. Francis, the daughter of Lord William Stafford, loves hunting and archery, and also wants to assist Mary Stuart, the true queen, even it means risking danger. We first meet Francis joyfully racing through the New Forest with her dog, Echo. She talks with her older cousin Hugh, and her strong and rebellious personality becomes clear as she wants to be known as a talented huntress after the exciting pursuit of a deer. Later, Lord Stafford plans a dangerous mission to help Mary Stuart, mixing Francis' personal goals with bigger themes like loyalty, fighting against unfairness, and rebellion.