Under the Lilacs

Set in the summer, the story follows two girls, Bab and Betty, who encounter a runaway circus boy, Ben Brown, and his dog, Sancho. As Ben adjusts to life away from the circus, he finds work on a neighboring farm and develops friendships, while grappling with the loss of his father. The narrative unfolds with various adventures, including an archery competition and a wild horse ride. Themes of friendship, grief, and finding one's place in the world are explored, culminating in the heartwarming revelation that Ben's father is alive.