Girl of the Limberlost — Gene Stratton-Porter

Elnora is desperate! It is the turn of the century -- a time when young women seldom act without the approval of their families. Yet that is exactly what Elnora has to do. And so she enters school against the wishes of her widowed mother, who for reasons unknown to Elnora seems determined to discourage and berate her.

Eventually Elnora, with her many talents and an unassuming beauty, wins the hearts of her classmates and teachers alike -- as well as the attention of handsome Philip Ammon, who is visiting Elnora's community. Soon she and Philip develop a deep and wonderful friendship as they work together studying Elnora's beloved Limberlost forest. But as their feelings for each other grow, Elnora is plagued by questions about their friendship . . . and about Philip's beautiful fiancée back in the city! Elnora longs to go to her mother for advice, but she seems as distant and disapproving as ever.

Can Elnora find a way to win her mother's love? Can she resolve the growing dilemma in her relationship with Philip? Or will she lose everything she has worked so hard to gain?