The Girl's Own Book

by Lydia Maria Child

Published in 1834, this book of entertainments for young girls is filled with marvelous and enjoyable activities to help young girls build character and have fun.

Genres: Nonfiction

296 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1833

About the author

Lydia Maria Child (1802-1880) was an activist and writer of novels, pamphlets, and works for children. She often used her writing to advocate for slaves, women, and Native Americans. Lydia Maria Child was born in Medford, Massachusetts, where her grandfather’s house, which she celebrates in her poem, still stands.

Reviews

[Andromeda]

This is a delightful read for anyone that interacts with history, historical interpretation or historical reenactment. I have lost many hours researching topics that came from the reading of this book. I played the Graces game, and tried to play many other games as well. It was always fun but sometimes the level of scholarship and academic tuition were too high by modern standards. College students were unable to enjoy The Flower and the Insects. The game intended to teach dating mentality and partner selection proved too challenging. I keep it on my shelf and refer to it often.

[Hex · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was a birthday gift in 1998, from my grandmother. I red this again tonight as a matter of research, as opposed to looking or games to play. This book is pretty much what is says on the tin, a 1833-1834 of rhymes, songs, games and projects for the young girl during the shifts between Georgian and Victorian society. Handy for new games as a child, baby-sitting, or finding period-appropriate activities for books.

[Melissa]

My copy has a purple cover. :)
I'm enjoying getting a glimpse at some of the games and exercises children participated in in the old days.