Marjorie's New Friend

Marjorie Maynard's Christmas begins with a homemade disaster: the work-bag she is secretly sewing for her mother has gone hopelessly wrong side out. Hidden behind a folding screen and aided by Kitty and Kingdon, she only makes the tangle worse until Mr. Maynard arrives with a simple, practical fix that turns embarrassment into pride. From there, the Maynards' holiday becomes a celebration of both gift-making and giving, as the family prepares a generous Christmas box for the poor Simpson family. Marjorie, Kitty, King, and Mrs. Maynard each contribute handmade toys, books, food, candy, and clothing, and on Christmas Eve they carry the overflowing baskets to the Simpsons' home, where their kindness brings tears, gratitude, and renewed hope to a family burdened by illness. Back at home, the season continues with Grandma and Uncle Steve, stockings by the fire, carols, games, supper, and the noisy delight of Christmas morning. Yet the lively Maynard spirit is not always easy for shy Delight, whose first holiday visit leaves her overwhelmed by teasing and rough play. Marjorie soon understands her better, and the two girls find common ground in a quieter, more artistic friendship, making valentines together and sharing rhymes, scraps, and imaginative play. This edition has been fully restored with modern typesetting, custom cover design.