A Little Maid of Old Philadelphia

"A Little Maid of Old Philadelphia" by Alice Turner Curtis is a tale set in 1778 during the American Revolution, where a young girl named Ruth Pernell copes with the trials of war while seeking out her missing dog, Hero. The story mixes the innocent world of childhood with the harsh reality of war, through Ruth and her friend Winifred, who play make-believe and support the American cause. Early in the novel, Ruth's search for Hero brings to mind the daily adventures of kids of all ages, intertwined now with the tension of war. We quickly learn about important friendships, like the one with Winifred, and the care provided by her Aunt Deborah. Ruth's determination to find Hero leads her to try and face General Howe, which leads to adventure and character growth across the unfolding story. The beginning creates an intriguing mix of lighthearted and historical importance that is likely to capture the attention of those who like both coming-of-age stories and historical fiction.