The opening pages of this free Kindle version state that it should contain illustrations. Unfortunately it does not. I'm sure they would have been a nice addition to the short story.
Mary Louisa Molesworth was a children's writer who used the name Mrs. Molesworth for all of her stories. She lived from 1839-1921 and wrote quite a few books aimed at little girls. Rosy was published in 1882. (info from wikipedia, Project Gutenberg, and the closing text of the ebook.)
My spoiler free description -
Rosy Vincent is a spoiled, willful child. She's been over indulged by her aunt and her aunt's maid. Her older brother teases her, her younger brother tries not to vex her, and her mother doesn't know what to do with her. Rosy is naughty and has no intension of ever trying to be good.
Along comes Beata Warwick. Another little girl about the same age as Rosy who has been sent to stay at the Vincent's for an extended time. Bee is opposite of Rosy. She's polite, pleasant, and even tempered. Rosy hates her before she ever steps foot in the house.
I need to keep in mind that this story was published 130 years ago. Mrs. Molesworth tried very hard to give her readers lessons in right and wrong. In this story themes include: being good even when it's difficult, the evils of greed and too high of expectations, and to always tell the truth.
I found it difficult to see the lessons aimed at the young readers since the story contained such horrible parenting methods. None of the adults had an ounce of common sense and made matters much worse. I'm sure this was also Molesworth's intention. Adults who spoil children, allow them to have their way, ignore bad behavior, and brush everything under the rug in hopes of keeping the peace, are later rewarded with a child like Rosy.
Remember Varuca Salt in Willie Wonka/Charlie and the Chocolate Factory? Her father gave her everything she wanted...? This book contains a message similar to that.
The author also loves the word, 'vexed'. She used it constantly in this story. It got old fast. BUT, I loved the childish lingo the author gave to Rosy's little brother, Felix. He is called Fix or Fixie throughout the book. His dialog was precious and made me smile numerous times.
Rosy was an interesting glimpse into children's literature over a century old. I'm glad I read it even though the mother did vex me terribly. :-)
