Poppy: The Story of a South African Girl

"Poppy: The Story of a South African Girl" by Cynthia Stockley is a book set in early 1900s South Africa, that centers around nine-year-old Poppy Destin, who endures a difficult childhood in Bloemfontein, raised by her uncaring Aunt Lena. The story examines Poppy's journey facing hardships such as poverty and hard work. The initial chapter introduces Poppy as a resentful child, stuck doing chores and dreaming of a grand life. Readers quickly discover her life is tough and she seeks comfort in fantasies. The narrative focuses on Poppy’s character and her emotional responses to a difficult upbringing, creating a foundation that follows her path of self-discovery and strength.