The Stokesley Secret

"The Stokesley Secret" by Charlotte M. Yonge is a story that takes place in the early 1900s, where we meet the Merrifield children and their governess, Miss Fosbrook, going about their daily routines. The book explores ideas about family, being a kid, and growing up, as the children come up with a plan to get a pig for a family that doesn't have much, which leads to funny talks and thoughtful moments about being young. We meet five-year-old David, who is full of questions and starts interesting chats at the dinner table along with the mischievous Henry, the teasing Sam, and Elizabeth, who is trying to figure out who she is. This start shows how close they are as a family and how much fun they have together. Miss Fosbrook tries to teach them how to act, using kindness and understanding. This gives readers a look into their happy world and invites them to join in their adventures.