FERN'S HOLLOW

by Hesba Stretton

Fern’s Hollow by Hesba Stretton is a touching and inspirational Victorian novel that explores themes of faith, resilience, and social justice. The story follows young Stephen Fern, an orphan who struggles to support his family after his father’s death. Living in poverty and facing harsh working conditions in the coal mines, Stephen endures cruelty from his wealthy employer while holding onto his strong Christian faith. Despite his hardships, he remains determined to overcome adversity, guided by his unwavering belief in justice and kindness. As Stephen navigates loss, hardship, and unexpected friendships, he discovers that true wealth lies not in material possessions but in faith, love, and perseverance. Hesba Stretton, known for her moral storytelling, crafts a poignant tale that highlights the struggles of the working class and the power of compassion. Fern’s Hollow remains a beloved classic of 19th-century children's literature, offering a moving and uplifting story for readers of all ages.

Genres: Fiction

167 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 1864

About the author

Hesba Stretton (1832-1911) was the nom de plume of Sarah Smith, an English author of children's literature. The name Hesba came from the initials of her siblings. She was the daughter of a bookseller from Wellington, Shropshire, but around 1867 she moved south and lived at Snaresbrook and Loughton near Epping Forest and at Ham, near Richmond, Surrey. Her moral tales and semi-religious stories, chiefly for the young, were printed in huge quantities, and were especially widespread as school and Sunday school prizes. She won wide acceptance in English homes from the publication of Jessica's First Prayer in 1867. She was a regular contributor to Household Words and All the Year Round during Charles Dickens' editorship, and wrote upwards of 40 novels.

Reviews

[Katja Labonté · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 stars & 3/10 hearts. I had high hopes for this book but I didn’t love it as I wanted to. I liked the beautiful faith content, but I didn’t love any of the characters. An interesting tale, though, especially for those interested in colliery villages.

*review to be updated*

[Alexis Carlson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very cozy story! I had just picked it up at an antique shop, and didn’t really know what to expect, but it was a good read.

[Petra W · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ferns Hollow is about a young boy who looses both parents and has to take care of his two sisters and crazed grandfather. On his journey through life, he finds himself in many hard situations. This book is about how he came through those hardships by the grace of God and his mercy. Learning many life lessons. Very easy read and little bit of a tear jerker.

[Khari · Rating 4 out of 5]

I quite enjoyed this book.

I just read an original printing of it being very careful not to open its 100 year plus pages all the way.

There was some very good theology that I had never really thought of before that was explained quite well through its allegory. I normally don't really like allegories, but I enjoyed this one.

[Amy Griffith · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good book but very, very sad. Like Stretton's other books, the gospel is central to the story line.

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good, old fashioned book. The author writes extremely well, in a way that keeps you very interested.
The book promotes Christianity, morals and values.