Jack and Jill -A Bookworm's Calendar - November

 Jack and Jill went up the hill
     To coast with fun and laughter,
Jack fell down and broke his crown,
     And Jill came tumbling after. 

So begins one of my favorite children's stories by L. Alcott. I cannot even count how many times I have read this, and enjoyed it. Though written primarily for children, adults will enjoy the simple joy and cheer that this little book gives.

The story opens just like the poem. Jack, and his friend Jill are out for a fun day of coasting (sledding). But a terrible accident occurs. Leaving Jack with a broken leg, and Jill with an injured back. The two children are faced with bed rest for several months. And they learn to be content and have fun when flat on their backs.

Christmas is one of the big themes of this book. Everyone works hard to create little gifts for each other.  I enjoyed learning some of the old Christmas customs of the late 1800's.

Probably my favorite thing in this book is the lessons it teaches. During a day when Jill and all her little girl friends were struggling to be good. Kind Mrs. Pecq asks them if they each wouldn't like to be missionaries. Each little girl agrees, wishing that she could live the adventurous life of a missionary. Mrs. Pecq then goes on to show the girls that each one has a mission field of her very own in her home, and that they ought to try and be little missionaries .

Overall this is a sweet story of children, their growth, their struggles, and their victories. Read along with me, and let me know what you think.

Want the link to buy it? Go here Jack and Jill .