Elsie's Kith and Kin
1886
Published in 1886, 'Elsie's Kith and Kin' by Martha Finley is a sentimental juvenile fiction novel that follows eight-year-old Elsie, who lives with her uncle's family on a Southern plantation during the mid-19th century. The story explores her struggles to connect with her indifferent father while navigating themes of Christian life, family dynamics, and the challenges of childhood, including the concept of death. Notable for its portrayal of familial relationships and moral lessons, the book is part of the larger Elsie Dinsmore series, which emphasizes Christian values and conduct.
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“Dear papa, I love you so much!' she replied, twining her arms around his neck. 'I love you all the better for never letting me have my own way, but always making me obey and keep to rules.””
— Martha Finley
“Though not a remarkably precocious child in other respects, she seemed to have very clear and correct views on almost every subject connected with her duty to God and her neighbor; was very truthful both in word and deed, very strict in her observance of the Sabbath--though the rest of the family were by no means particular in that respect--very diligent in her studies; respectful to superiors, and kind to inferiors and equals; and she was gentle, sweet-tempered, patient, and forgiving to a remarkable degree.””
— Martha Finley
“if papa would only quit looking at me,””
— Martha Finley
“Be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear.'" Then raising her eyes to his face with a touching mixture of deep humility and holy boldness, she continued, "And this, sir is my answer: Jesus says, 'Him that cometh unto me, I will in no wise cast out;' and I believe Him. I did go to Him, and He did not cast me out, but forgave my sins, and taught me to love Him and desire to serve Him all my life.””
— Martha Finley
