Hesba Stretton - Fern's Hollow: "Patience is better than strength"

More about the book

The narrative centers on Sarah Smith, known by her pen name Hesba Stretton, who became a prominent Evangelical writer in the 19th century. Her children's literature, rooted in Christian values, addressed social issues and gained immense popularity, notably with "Jessica's First Prayer," which sold over 1.5 million copies. Stretton's works often featured themes of homelessness and the struggles of underprivileged children, reflecting her experiences in slum areas. She co-founded the London Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children and remained active in promoting literature for the working class until her death in 1911.