Otherwise Phyllis

"Otherwise Phyllis" by Meredith Nicholson is a story from the early 1900s that begins as a father, Tom, and his daughter, Phil, are ending a camping trip and preparing to leave. Their close relationship is apparent as they pack up. Eighteen-year-old Phil pushes back against the expectations coming from her more traditional aunts as she strives for independence and adventure in Montgomery, Indiana. Her playful nature is clear as she explores the area and discovers a party, suggesting that this is a story about being yourself when others want you to be different.