Janet of the Dunes

"Janet of the Dunes" by Harriet T. Comstock is a story about a girl named Janet being raised by Cap'n Billy near a Life Saving Station on Long Island's dunes. Janet has a hard time growing up and wants to stay free like she was when she was younger, but the world is changing around her. At the start, we see Janet and Cap'n Billy living a peaceful life by the coast. Cap'n Billy worries about Janet's future, especially if she can handle the expectations of society. Even though she’s young, Janet doesn't want to leave her simple life. Through their talks, we see the close connection between them, and how Cap'n Billy wants what's best for her. He plans to send her away to the mainland to find her way, even though Janet just wants to stay where she is. This sets up Janet's journey to find herself, facing challenges from the world around her and the people in it.