Charlotte M. Yonge 
The Long Vacation 

In ‘The Long Vacation’ by Charlotte M. Yonge, readers are immersed in a coming-of-age story set in the 19th century. The novel follows the experiences of a group of schoolboys as they navigate the challenges of adolescent friendships and rivalries during the summer break. Written in Yonge’s signature style of moral storytelling, the book explores themes of loyalty, honor, and the complexities of young adulthood. Yonge’s attention to detail and character development bring the time period to life, making the reader feel as though they are right alongside the boys as they navigate their summer adventures. Charlotte M. Yonge, a prolific Victorian-era author, was known for her educational and religious writings. It is possible that Yonge’s own experiences in teaching and her strong beliefs in Christian values influenced her writing of ‘The Long Vacation.’ By combining entertainment with moral lessons, Yonge creates a compelling narrative that engages readers of all ages. I highly recommend ‘The Long Vacation’ to readers who enjoy classic coming-of-age stories with a moral twist. Yonge’s insightful storytelling and relatable characters make this novel a timeless read that continues to resonate with audiences today.

Circa l’autore

Charlotte Mary Yonge (1823–1901) was an English novelist esteemed for her considerable contribution to children’s literature and the genre of historical fiction during the Victorian era. Born in Otterbourne, Hampshire, Yonge was educated at home under the tutelage of her father, strongly influenced by the Oxford Movement and its emphasis on the Tractarian ideals within the Church of England. Her literary career spanned over seven decades, during which she published more than 160 works, comprising novels, short stories, and educational texts (Battiscombe, 1943; Romanes, 1884). ‘The Heir of Redclyffe’ (1853) is widely recognized as her most celebrated work, setting a precedent for the portrayal of moral and religious themes interwoven with domestic realism. Yonge’s novel ‘The Long Vacation’ (1895) reflects her mastery in exploring familial dynamics and the consequences of personal choices against the backdrop of English society. She infused her narratives with vivid characterization and evoked a sense of duty and social responsibility (Gavin, 2010; Mitchell, 2013). A co-founder of the Monthly Packet, a magazine aimed at British Anglican girls, Yonge deployed her literary talents to express values aligned with Christian faith and moral instruction, solidifying her reputation as a significant moralist and educator of the 19th century (Mare & Sturrock, 2011).