Title: What Katy Did
Author: Susan Coolidge
First published January 1, 1872
136 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9780543904706 (ISBN10: 0543904709)
Rating: 3.89
Overview
In the book “Lost in the City of Dreams” by Sarah Beth Durst, sixteen-year-old Lily has always known about the magical world of dreams. It’s where her father disappeared years ago, and where she must now journey to rescue him.
But the Dreamlord, ruler of this fantastical realm, has other plans for Lily. He wants her to take his place as the new Dreamlord, and he’ll stop at nothing to make it happen.
Lily must navigate a world filled with nightmares, talking cats, and time loops, all while trying to find her father and avoid becoming the very thing she’s fighting against. With a mix of humor, heart, and adventure, Sarah Beth Durst creates a modern-day fairy tale that will keep you turning pages until the very end.
About the Author
Susan Coolidge is the pen name of Sarah Chauncey Woolsey, a children’s author from America. She was born on January 29, 1835, into the wealthy and influential Dwight family in Cleveland, Ohio.
At the age of 17, her family moved to New Haven, Connecticut, where she spent most of her childhood.
During the American Civil War, Woolsey worked as a nurse. After the war, she began her writing career.
Although she was the niece of author and poet Gamel Woolsey, she never married and lived in her family home in Newport, Rhode Island, until she passed away.
Woolsey edited The Autobiography and Correspondence of Mrs. Delaney in 1879 and The Diary and Letters of Frances Burney in 1880.
However, her most famous work is the classic children’s novel, What Katy Did, published in 1872. The fictional Carr family in the book was based on the author’s own family, with Katy Carr taking inspiration from Susan (Sarah) herself, and her siblings modeled on Woolsey’s four younger brothers and sisters.
Editoral Review
What Katy Did by Susan Coolidge is a timeless classic that has been enchanting readers since it was first published in 1872. Coolidge was an American author and poet who wrote other popular childrens books such as What Katy Did at School, Clover, and In the High Valley.
What Katy Did is a heartwarming tale about Katy Carr, a headstrong, adventurous, and curious girl who learns important life lessons through her triumphs and struggles. The book is a coming-of-age story set in the late 19th Century, in a small town in the United States.
The novel captures the spirit of the time and portrays the cultural and societal norms of the era. In addition, the book highlights themes of family, friendship, perseverance, and forgiveness – making it relevant to readers of all ages.
The plot revolves around Katy, the eldest of six siblings, who dreams of one day becoming a great woman. Her journey, however, is filled with challenges and obstacles.
After a traumatic accident, Katy is confined to her room and told that she may never walk again. The book follows her as she traverses this new reality, and with determination, she embarks on a journey of personal growth, learning the value of kindness, compassion, and forgiveness.
Susan Coolidges writing is beautifully descriptive and vivid, capturing the essence of the characters and the setting. The story unfolds seamlessly, keeping the reader engaged and invested in the characters lives.
The author cleverly plays with expectations, leading the reader down unexpected paths while masterfully delivering powerful life lessons. The characters in What Katy Did are all unique and memorable, each with their own distinct personality, motivations, and plotlines.
Katy, in particular, is a charming and relatable protagonist who embodies a positive role model for young readers one that promotes independence, perseverance, and the importance of family bonds. The novel has a nostalgic feel, reminding readers of simpler times and simpler values.
The focus on family dynamics and human growth makes it an appropriate read for all ages, from children to adults. It is also a valuable teaching resource, as it addresses important themes that aren’t always evident in current children’s literature.
While there are some limitations to the novel – most notably its lack of diversity – What Katy Did is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with readers. Its lessons are universal, and its messages of resilience and courage are as relevant today as they were when it was first written.
In conclusion, What Katy Did is a wonderful and insightful read for anyone looking for an engaging story filled with valuable life lessons. Its positivity and charming characters make it a perfect book for young readers, while its nostalgic feel appeals to adults.
We highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a meaningful and inspiring read. Rating: 4/5.