The Looking-Glass for the Mind

Everyday choices become moral lessons in this collection of children's stories drawn chiefly from M. Berquin's French writing and presented in English. The tales place young people among parents, neighbours, animals and household responsibilities. In the opening story, little Adolphus struggles with the loss of his mother, while his aunt Mrs. Clarkson tries to comfort him. Other titles point to kindness toward birds, the care of a lamb, vanity, gratitude and the contrast between steady work and idleness.

The collection speaks directly to young readers, using familiar situations to explain how conduct affects other people. A later story follows Jonathan, a gardener whose drinking damages his work and leaves his wife Bella struggling to support their family. These are plainly instructive tales, with strong emotion and clear judgments about good behaviour. Readers interested in older children's literature will find a picture of education through stories, where affection, practical effort and responsibility carry the lesson.