The Flag-Raising

"The Flag-Raising" by Kate Douglas Smith Wiggin is a children's novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around a young girl named Rebecca Randall as she navigates life with her strict aunts in Riverboro, Maine, during a time when community and patriotism are significant. The narrative captures themes of childhood, education, and local customs, primarily focusing on the excitement and preparation surrounding a flag-raising ceremony, reflecting the innocence and aspirations of youth. In the book, Rebecca arrives at her aunts' home, where she is initially worried about fitting in due to her unconventional ways. As she tries to adapt to her new life, her spirit shines through her love for poetry and her imaginative nature. Set against the backdrop of the flag-raising event, Rebecca becomes an integral part of the preparations to create the community's flag, ultimately embodying the State of Maine during the ceremony. The story highlights her determination and creativity, especially in a tense moment when she must recover the stolen flag. The charming and humorous incidents throughout demonstrate Rebecca’s resilience, her relationships with her family and peers, and the underlying message of unity, pride, and belonging to something greater than oneself. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Kate Douglas Wiggin was an American educator, author and composer. She wrote children's stories, most notably the classic children's novel Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm, and composed collections of children's songs. She started the first free kindergarten in San Francisco in 1878. With her sister during the 1880s, she also established a training school for kindergarten teachers. Kate Wiggin devoted her adult life to the welfare of children in an era when children were commonly thought of as cheap labor.