Old books might be fun to read. We saw an old copy of What Maisie Knew by Henry James for sale at a yard sale – $100.00! We did not buy it!

I was curious about the book because we have a great-granddaughter named Maisie, so I read most of and the last chapter of What Maisie Knew.

Henry James published the story in 1897 about the young girl and her experiences with her parents, stepparents, and other people’s involvements around her.

Henry James was a prolific writer during the end of the 19th and beginning of the 20th centuries. Some consider many of his works to be classics and several have been adapted as movies.

There are enough reviews of the book, so there is no need for me to say anything already said about the story.

I found the book difficult to read, but not because of the story. It was the writing style. I am, however, sure that he was writing for the audience of his generation.

In as much as the style seemed difficult while reading, I have a very good picture in my mind of physical, emotional, and behavior characteristics of each person.

So, what did Maisie know?

My guess is that the book would have to be studied, not just read. Several academic reviews are available on the internet. LitCharts is one of the sites.

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