A Little Princess by Frances Hodgson Burnett tells the story of Sara Crewe, a brilliant and imaginative student at Miss Minchin’s Select Seminary for Young Ladies. When her beloved father dies unexpectedly, leaving the family in financial ruin, Sara is cast out from her privileged life into an attic room, where she faces harsh treatment and is forced to work as a servant. Despite these trials, Sara maintains her dignity and spirit, holding onto hope even in the darkest of times. This edition includes excerpts from Burnett’s original 1888 novella, “Sara Crewe,” and the stage play that preceded it, along with an early story titled “Behind the White Brick.” These additions provide insight into how A Little Princess evolved over time and enhance readers’ appreciation for this enduring classic of children’s literature. U.C. Knoepflmacher’s introduction explores the fairy-tale elements and literary references in the book, positioning it as a significant work within Victorian literature.
