"Two girls . . . came out under the bunting-draped arch and strolled along past the banana trees to the garden seat just below her. From her hiding place behind the moon-vines, Mary watched them as only a sociable little soul could watch, who for months had been hungering for such companionship. She clutched the railing with both hands, hoping fervently that they would stop." -from Chapter 1
As Mary Ware visits the bustling cities of Texas for the first time, she experiences the challenges of urban life and new social situations. Mary comes to better understand human emotions and impulses and also begins to better understand herself and her own inner strength.
Annie Johnston's books featuring Mary Ware are a spin-off from her beloved Little Colonel Series, a collection of semi-biographical books about a young lady named Hattie Cocharn. Though published more than one hundred years ago, Johnston's works are still celebrated for their lasting impact on generations of young women.
