My Robin (ePub)

Frances Hodgson Burnett (1849-1924) was a British-American novelist and playwright best known for her endearing children's stories and her unique ability to capture the imaginations of readers both young and old. Born in Cheetham, England, Burnett emigrated with her family to the United States in 1865 following the death of her father, which had left the family financially destitute. Settling in Tennessee, Burnett's burgeoning literary talent became a means of financial support for her family through her stories in magazines. Her early work focused on adult novels and plays, but she eventually found her niche in children's literature with her breakthrough novel 'Little Lord Fauntleroy' (1886). Burnett's gift for storytelling is evident in her works, often intertwining themes of class, identity, and transformation which resonate within the Victorian moral framework. Her stories have a timeless charm that has been attributed to her adept characterization and vibrant descriptions. One of her lesser-known though equally charming works is 'My Robin' (1912), which features her exceptional gift for capturing the natural world in prose. This piece showcases her personal love for gardening and nature conservation, themes she revisited frequently in her writing. Burnett was also an early feminist, and her independent heroines often challenged societal norms. Her rich literary contributions include classics such as 'The Secret Garden' (1911) and 'A Little Princess' (1905), that continue to be celebrated for their depth, vitality, and compassion. Burnett's literary style and esteemed body of work solidify her place as a distinguished figure in children's literature and a notable author of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.