Spring Begins in March

E. Jane Philipps is head of the Biology Library at Queen’s University
in Kingston.

Originally published in 1966, this continuation of the family tale that
began with Little’s award-winning first novel Mine for Keeps remains
fresh and relevant 30 years later.

At odds with herself, her family, and the world in general, Meg
Copeland, struggling at school and forever out of step at home,
stubbornly resists all overtures of help and understanding. The dream of
having a room of her own, almost within her grasp, is dashed when her
grandmother comes to stay, and her new puppy, as recalcitrant as she,
further complicates her situation. Ultimately, through a series of
misadventures and the perseverance of her family, Meg finds her way.

The author’s sensitive portrayal of Meg’s growing pains skilfully
evokes the troubled child in all of us and will certainly strike a chord
in young readers, whether or not they see themselves in Meg or in her
siblings. Written with humor, compassion, and a keen understanding of
family conflict and concord, Spring Begins in March is highly
recommended.