Erin's Favorite Books of 2018: Classic Literature

Some of my friends love reading and discussing classic literature together. We usually do 4-5 group reads a year, though not everyone can participate each time. My selection of favorites for this year comes entirely from our group! 




Emily of Deep Valley by Maud Hart Lovelace

In 1912 Emily desperately wants to go to college with her fellow high school graduates, but family requirements keep her at home. This young lady has the choice to lose herself in self-pity or rise above and make the most of life right where she is. A beautiful and inspirational story!





Pollyanna by Eleanor Porter

You've probably heard of Pollyanna and her Glad Game, but it's still endearing to read the story of the precocious orphan girl who changes the lives of everyone around her with her positive spirit. In a world in need of cheer, Pollyanna shows us how to light the way.





By The Shores of Silver Lake by Laura Ingalls Wilder

Have Laura and family finally found a place to stay? A town is rising up on the South Dakota plains, and the Ingalls family is one of the founding members. It is always an adventure with Laura and company!

"The Bride of Ivy Green" by Julie Klassen

 


The Tales From Ivy Hill series concludes with this new release from Julie Klassen. Once upon a time we met Jane, a young widow who was stepping up to the challenge of being an innkeeper, and Mercy, a schoolteacher whose life took an unexpected turn. Will Jane and Mercy both find the happy endings their hearts long for?

Still trying to deal with her body's limitations, Jane hesitates to accept the offer of marriage that has been given to her. With the unexpected arrival of someone from her past, Jane ponders if it will change her future.

Now in reduced circumstances, Mercy considers becoming a governess in order to find a measure of freedom. She pines for the man who has caught her heart, but meanwhile she's caught the eye of a man who could give her every comfort.

Alongside the other Ivy Hill residents we've come to know and love, a new seamstress comes to town with the hope of making a fresh start. Her mysterious background becomes a source of much curiosity, and it turns out she may have more ties to the village than she even knows.

A wonderful wrap-up to a delightful series, The Bride of Ivy Green had me laughing, cheering, and crying by turns. If you enjoy stories reminiscent of Jane Austen or Elizabeth Gaskell, you'll want to add these to your reading list.

I received my copy of the book from the publisher. All thoughts in this review are my own.