This beloved Newbery Medal–winning book is the first of five books in Patricia MacLachlan’s chapter book series about the Witting family.

Set in the late nineteenth century and told from young Anna’s point of view, Sarah, Plain and Tall tells the story of how Sarah Elisabeth Wheaton comes from Maine to the prairie to answer Papa’s advertisement for a wife and mother. Before Sarah arrives, Anna and her younger brother Caleb wait and wonder. Will Sarah be nice? Will she sing? Will she stay?

I was doing some chores today and wanted a quick audiobook to listen to while I worked. This was only 60 minutes long, so I listened. I’d never read the book, so why not?

What an absolutely delightful story. I wish I’d known about this book when I was a kid — I would have devoured it, and probably the rest of the series. It very much has that Little House on the Prairie feel, but the shorter length would be easier for younger kids. Even as an adult, it was fun to read.

I’d love to pick up this book to have around for when kids come to visit. I might even read the rest of the series, even though I’m not the target audience.

Rated G. Get your copy here!