The Collected Works (eBook)

Kate Douglas Wiggin (1856–1923) was an American educator and author of children's stories and educational texts, born in Philadelphia and raised in the nurturing ambiance of rural Maine. A pioneer in the field of early childhood education, Wiggin founded the first free kindergarten in San Francisco in 1878, an endeavor that manifested her deep commitment to social reform and underscored her belief in the transformative power of education. Her literary career blossomed with works that often reflected her pedagogical principles and a keen sensitivity towards the inner world of children. Wiggin's prose, characterized by its charm, wit, and a wholesome optimism, succeeds in capturing the vicissitudes of childhood with notable empathy and an enduring appeal. Her most celebrated contribution to children's literature, 'Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm', endears itself to readers through its vivid protagonist, reflective of Wiggin's own upbringing in bucolic New England. Her collected works encompass not only delightful tales for the young reader but also showcase her versatility as an essayist and travel writer. Beyond entertainment, Wiggin's narratives often carry an instructional undertone, subtly imparting moral lessons aligned with the virtues of the era. Her contributions to the genre forged a lasting legacy, cementing her place as a significant figure in the pantheon of children's literature. Her literary style and themes continue to inspire and charm successive generations of readers and educators alike.