Kate Douglas Wiggin, who gave us the beloved Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm, brings us another gentle story set in the world of early 20th century New England. Susanna and Sue feels like a warm, if sometimes bittersweet, slice of life from a bygone era.

The Story

When their father's work takes him away, sisters Susanna and Sue are packed off to the small town of Beulah to live with their Aunt Miranda. Aunt Miranda is a pillar of her church and community, but she runs her household with strict, unwavering rules. Sue, the younger sister, adapts more easily, but Susanna struggles. She's thoughtful, imaginative, and questions the rigid routines and somber piety expected of her. The book follows Susanna's journey as she navigates this new life, chafing under expectations, forming a few key friendships, and slowly discovering her own path. It's less about big plot twists and more about the small, significant moments that shape a young person's heart and mind.

Why You Should Read It

This book won me over with its incredible heart. Wiggin writes about childhood with such honesty and affection. Susanna isn't a perfect heroine; she's stubborn and sometimes prideful, but you root for her because her desire for authenticity is so real. The tension between her lively spirit and Aunt Miranda's austere world is handled with nuance—neither side is entirely right or wrong. It's a beautiful exploration of how we learn to respect tradition while honoring our own inner voice. The setting is cozy and vividly drawn, making you feel the chill of a New England morning and the warmth of a kitchen hearth.

Final Verdict

Susanna and Sue is perfect for readers who enjoy classic, character-driven stories like Anne of Green Gables or Little Women. It’s for anyone who appreciates a quiet, thoughtful book about family, faith, and growing up. If you're looking for fast-paced action, this isn't it. But if you want to spend time with well-drawn characters in a story that feels both nostalgic and genuinely insightful about human nature, you'll find a real gem here. It's a comforting, deeply felt novel that lingers long after the last page.