Letters to Children

"Letters to Children" by E. C. Bridgman is an early 19th-century account from a missionary in China, sharing insights with children back in Massachusetts about a world vastly different from their own. Through personal letters, the author highlights the striking contrast between the lives of American children, who are familiar with the Bible, and the countless Chinese children growing up without knowledge of Christian teachings. He introduces young readers to the predominant religions of China—Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism—and vividly portrays the widespread idol worship, aiming to inspire them to appreciate their own spiritual upbringing and foster compassion for those less fortunate. This narrative emphasizes the profound impact of faith and the importance of sharing religious knowledge with others across the globe.