Spoiled New York City girl, Hildegarde Graham, is sent to stay with her mother's old nurse in the country. When her parents must take a trip to California, Hildegarde learns the value of simplicity, kindness, and a more democratic sensibility.

Laura Elizabeth Howe Richards (Feb. 27, 1850 - Jan. 14, 1943) was born in Boston, Mass., to a high-profile family. During her life, she wrote over 90 books, including children's novels, biographies, and poetry. Queen Hildegarde, published in 1889, was one of her most famous works.