Swallowdale (Swallows And Amazons)

My mother, who was twelve years old in 1938, wrote a letter to Mr. Ransome telling him how much she loved his books, and asking if she could "be" Nancy, her favorite character. Mr. Ransome very kindly wrote back and bequeathed that character to her. That thought was very important to her, helping her get through some difficult times in her childhood. And her kids grew up to enjoy the books just as much. If I ever have children (or nieces & nephews) I will certainly share the books with them, too. They are fun and adventurous, and also show kids being "real," and also being independent and responsible, and able to help each other out. I wish the world could still be that way for kids.