Jill: A Flower Girl

"Jill: A Flower Girl" by L. T. Meade is a story set in late 19th-century London that centers on Jill, a young flower seller who lives with her mom and brothers in a small apartment. As the story opens, Jill deals with big differences between the wealthy and her own tough life, focusing on themes of love, devotion, and difficulty as she copes with her mother’s drinking problem and the challenges of looking after her family. The beginning of the book shows the lively city of London, combining the fancy lives of the rich with the poor lives of Jill and her family. Jill's respect for the fancy ladies and gentlemen she sees from the street displays her deep desire for a better life, while her commitment to her mother and her strong will to keep her safe from criticism guide her actions. The scene swiftly moves to show Jill's kind heart, as she hurries to help Poll, her drunken mother, who is suffering from a terrible situation. This first look prepares readers for Jill's inner battles, her hopes for a loving marriage to Nat, and the sad relationships in her family.