The New-Year's Bargain

The New-Year's Bargain is a children's novel by Susan Coolidge, first published in 1884. Set in a secluded cottage in the Black Forest, it follows siblings Max and Thekla as they meet Old Time, who introduces them to the personified months of the year. After Max steals some 'sand of time,' he proposes a whimsical bargain where each month visits them to share stories and gifts, leading to adventures that teach lessons about time, seasons, gratitude, and responsibility. This work is notable for its imaginative storytelling and exploration of childhood themes.