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Critical Review of Miss Hickory

"Miss Hickory" is a beloved children's book by Carolyn Sherwin Bailey, featuring the adventures of a small doll made from an apple twig. Living in the countryside, Miss Hickory faces the challenges of winter without a warm home. However, her resourcefulness shines through as she ingeniously constructs a cozy dwelling using natural materials. Along the way, she encounters various characters like the helpful dog Tidy and the mischievous crow Crowboy, experiencing both friendship and conflict. Through her cleverness and determination, Miss Hickory overcomes obstacles and learns valuable lessons about self-reliance, friendship, and embracing one's unique qualities. This heartwarming story emphasizes the beauty of nature, resilience, and the importance of embracing one's individuality.


Everybody wants to find a place where they are welcomed. Whenever somebody’s life is unstable, we should show them some hospitality. Miss Hickory, a small doll made from an apple twig, finds herself facing the challenges of winter without a warm and cozy home. Throughout the story, she is rejected from several places. The barn, which was her first home, was abandoned during the winter, and she was kicked out by both Robin and Squirrel. After a long time of wandering and harsh treatment, Miss Hickory finally found a home suitable for her, a tree which was about to blossom. Plus, she regrew her nut head, which was bitten off by Squirrel. Miss Hickory was determined to find herself a home, and in the end, she succeeded. A sense of belonging is formed when somebody gets to a place where they are welcomed.


In a community, everybody helps each other to better their society. Instead of working for their own short term benefit, it's better for people to work for the common good. In her old home, Miss Hickory helps others, including Crowboy, and Tidy. Through these interactions, she discovers the strength and support that can be found in coming together with others. The diverse characters in the story represent the importance of unity, collaboration, and cooperation within a community. Miss Hickory's journey teaches readers the value of fostering inclusive and supportive environments where individuals can find solace, friendship, and a shared sense of purpose. The theme of community in "Miss Hickory" encourages readers to reflect on the significance of human connection and the collective efforts needed to overcome obstacles and create a sense of belonging for all.


People’s attitude towards others can change over time. As time passes, our opinion of others may change. The story follows Miss Hickory, a twig doll with a hickory nut head, as she undergoes a transformative journey. Initially rigid and judgmental, Miss Hickory's encounters and challenges lead her to embrace empathy, flexibility, and diverse perspectives. Through her evolving attitude, readers witness the power of personal growth and the importance of open-mindedness. Miss Hickory's transformation serves as a poignant reminder that shifting our attitudes can lead to deeper connections and a more fulfilling life. Bailey's tale inspires readers to approach life with an adaptable mindset and a willingness to embrace change, resonating with the idea that altering our attitudes can bring about profound positive transformations.


In "Miss Hickory," Carolyn Sherwin Bailey beautifully weaves together the themes of changing attitude, community, and home. As Miss Hickory's attitude evolves, she learns the importance of empathy and embracing diverse perspectives. This transformation not only leads to personal growth but also strengthens the bonds within her community. Through her open-mindedness, Miss Hickory fosters a sense of belonging and creates a warm and inclusive home for those around her. The story reminds us of the transformative power of shifting our attitudes and the profound impact it can have on our relationships and sense of community. "Miss Hickory" serves as a gentle yet powerful reminder to approach life with an open heart, embracing change, and nurturing a supportive and welcoming home where everyone feels valued and accepted.


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