Understood Betsy

By: Dorothy Canfield Fisher

Narrated by: Anne Hancock

Length: 4 hrs and 38 mins

Publisher's summary

Elizabeth Ann is being carefully brought up by her Aunt Frances. Aunt Frances shares in all Elizabeth Ann's fears and slights, walks her to and from school each day, and conscientiously follows the most modern theories on child-rearing. She is the original helicopter parent. Not surprisingly, at nine years old Elizabeth Ann is timid and shy, friendless, and completely dependent on her doting aunt.

Then an emergency occurs, and the fearful little girl is temporarily sent to other relatives who live on a farm in Vermont. When her uncle Henry nonchalantly hands her the buggy reins for the ride from the train station, the newly named Betsy realizes that that this new family expects her to think for herself.

Dorothy Canfield Fisher was an early advocate of Maria Montessori's educational theory of learning by doing, and her heroine flourishes as she becomes aware of and interested in the world around her and discovers how truly capable she is.

Public Domain (P)2015 Anne Hancock

Like a picnic on a warm spring day

I really enjoyed this book. The descriptions of the countryside and the people who decorated it were warm and fuzzy - in a good way. Yes, it might have been a little predictable and pollyannish but those aren't always bad things. I watch my comfort movies over and over and know they aren't going to change and that's what I like about them. Sometimes I need a little sunshine and 'sometimes things do turn out alright' in my life and this fit the bill. I would say it 'was a simpler time' but I don't know that and suspect every time has its challenges and beauty. It was without cell phones, computers and sports cars and it appealed to my inner tween.
I was gifted this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.

wonderful story. well read. a delight to listen.

it will be a story I will return to again. captures a slice of life in the early 20th century with a winning heroine and great characters. The reader is perfect. I would like to find other stories she has read aloud.

So Glad I Read This

This was part of my daughter's reading for our Sonlight homeschool curriculm. We finished this one via this audio version. Such a great story, and the reader brought it to life.

Understood Betsy

“This audiobook was given by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review via Audiobook Boom.”


Understood Betsy
: Dorothy Canfield Fisher

This book originally published in 1916 (that was five years before my mother was born.)

A wonderful book about an overly protected young girl, that was sent to live with relatives that expected her to be self sufficient. Quite a story for kids to adults, as each age group will find their own meaning.



The narration was well done.The characters were well portrayed.

Heartwarming classic

Lovable characters and simple but profound natural life lessons. Kittens, hounds, prize pigs and playful calves. The story is well paced and I found the time went more quickly while working in the kitchen. Perfectly narrated!

Great reminder that children are capable

This was a very good book for me to listen to. It is a strong reminder that children should have the opportunity to struggle, grow and gain a sense of self confidence as they realize that they can do hard things.

Heartwarming story. Helicopter parents: take note!

Interesting story telling. The human spirit does find a way to succeed! I loved each character for different reasons. Great listen.

Understood Betsy

This was fascinating to listen to.Set in the early 1900's,Anne Hancock does a fine narration.betsy is an orphan taken in by Aunts.They live in the city.When her aunt becomes ill Betsy ends up on a farm with another family.She experiences new things everyday.I was provided this book free by the author,narrator or publisher.

Sweet classic

The sweetest book! Such a heartwarming classic. My kids and I all really enjoyed it!!

The text make pictures in your mind

50 years ago I looked for these old stories for my children to use in our homeschool classes. Stories that expanded a child's vocabulary as well as their imagination. Stories that expose them to events, cultures, and even chores they might never experience for themselves. All interactions done in kindness, good character, compassion, and hard work, even a willingness to compromise. Rarely are these attributes seen in children's digital gaming entertainment now. Get your kids off a screen. Give them this audiobook if you think they won't sit still for you to read a hard copy. All ages would enjoy this heartwarming book. For sure give your 14-year-olds and younger an opportunity to expand their imaginations as well as their character. It's especially helpful for children who have been displaced from home. I'm very grateful the title was recommended to me.

Beautiful Happy Story

Anne Hancock the reader does her usual superb job of delivering the content of this cozy, wonderful book. I am sorry I did not read this decades ago.