Helen's Temper and It's Consequences

by Mrs. George Gladstone
Available from Lamplighter Publishing
*****
Helen did have a temper, and she also despised those who were not blessed with beautiful bodies or worldly goods, this latter having much to do with the fact that she craved her peers' approval. Her younger sister Betty was not so smart as Helen, but she had a warm and compassionate heart and manner. When the girls encounter another young girl, who appears to be poor and crippled, Helen is rude, and Betty kindly helps her to find her way home. Betty's tender spirit becomes the means of helping improve the state of poor Louisa's family. She gives what she can to the struggling family, teaches the girls helpful skills, and shares the gospel, resulting in the salvation of more than one. Helen believes that Louisa is a bad reflection on her, and her anger leads her to a tragic behavior. There is one person, however, who sees a way to help Helen.

This is an excellent story for family read-alouds or independent readers. The sweet character of Betty is an inspiration for others, and Helen's is a warning, although the author never explicitly preaches at the reader. I heartily recommend it!