Review: Little Lord Fauntleroy by Frances Hodgson Burnett

Although I’ve missed blogging these past few weeks, I’ve had so much more time to read. I’ve also discovered that there are a number of very good and interesting books on my list, many of which I’d been hesitant to add. It’s truly a blessing that these books are on my list for I may not have read them for at least a couple of years more. One of these fantastic books that I an grateful to have unintentionally put on my list is Little Lord Fauntleroy. This book is now one of my favourit-est books of all time! Let me tell you why.

This book, written very clearly and simply, tells one of the most heart warming stories a person could ever read. I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough and wouldn’t budge until I’d reached the last page.

Little Lord Fauntleroy is the story of  seven year old Cedric who’s lived all his life in New York as an American. His mother and he, although quite poor, live decently on what they do have. One day a very distinguished looking lawyer from England visits Cedric’s mother and informs her that Cedric is the heir to a large estate, fortune, and title.

This book has been described as the classic rags to riches story. What sets it apart from the other Cinderella type stories is that the difficulties arise only after the good news of the inheritance (to an Earldom) has been shared. It is interesting to know that the author had also been very poor as a child and though originally English had emigrated to America in 1865 with her family. Although they didn’t become any richer after having left the slums of Manchester, they were happier settling in Tennessee, America. Many of Burnett’s early stories follow the same theme as Little Lord Fauntleroy, and this book offers deep insight into what her childhood dreams and fantasies must have been like.

This book tugs at one’s heart just the right amount. It was only after I’d completed this book that I discovered that the author of Little Lord Fauntleroy, A Little Princess, and The Secret Garden were the same person. That explained a lot. A Little Princess, another favourite of mine, is just as stirring and delightful as Little Lord Fauntleroy. And I have become quite sure that Frances Hodgson Burnett’s books should be made mandatory reading.

If you haven’t already read this book you must make it a point to find it and read it soon. Although children’s books are a personal soft spot, I am willing to guarantee that this won’t disappoint anyone easily. On a side note, Little Lord Fauntleroy has been adapted into movie form with several versions. After having watched two versions, I would strongly recommend that the book be read first.