15 - Lost on the Desert

In The Little Colonel in Arizona, the Ware family faces a profound change after the death of their husband and father, compounded by the mothers illness. Relocating from the familiarity of Kentucky to the vastness of Arizona, young Joyce finds herself thrust into the role of the family’s anchor. As she grapples with loneliness and the fading of her dreams, a chance encounter with an invalid at Lees Ranch introduces her to the enchanting Legend of Camelback Mountain and the inspiring Lesson of the Bees, igniting a flicker of hope within her. A heartfelt letter to Lloyd, affectionately known as the Little Colonel, brings him to visit the Wares at their Wigwam for a month. Here, Joyce meets the charming Phil Tremont, who awakens feelings she thought were lost forever. Yet, Phil carries his own burdens and must navigate his challenges while uncovering the Legend of Alaka and the lost turquoises. The story also introduces the delightful and chatty little Mary Ware, who plays a significant role in future tales.