The Girl's Own Paper, Vol. VIII: No. 353, October 2, 1886.

"The Girl's Own Paper, Vol. VIII: No. 353, October 2, 1886" by Various is a magazine created in the Victorian era for young women filled with stories, articles, and pictures that offer guidance on growing up, how to act, and learning household skills. A main story, "Merle's Crusade" by Rosa Nouchette Carey, tells of Merle Fenton, an orphan who lives with her aunt and uncle, who seeks to become independent by finding a paying job but is challenged by family expectations. She wants to take on non-traditional work for women, but also struggles her family's view on what is acceptable for women to be employed doing. This is a story of Merle's strength as she chases her dreams while facing a time that had strict rules for women.