Patricia P. Willoughby and The Forest's Gift is a warm, old-world children's chapter book set in a small English village around the 1500s to 1600s. Patricia rides to a one-room school, learns on a slate board, and discovers that even the smallest hands can carry light into a dark season. When a hunting party finds a wild beehive, the village receives honey for food and beeswax for candles. Patricia and her classmates each make a candle, then bring that golden glow home, where it brightens winter nights, storms, and the hearts of neighbors who need a little courage.

This humorous, friendly story blends everyday adventure with timeless truths about gratitude, patience, and community. The historical details feel inviting rather than heavy, and the "gift" at the story's center ties work, wisdom, and wonder together in a way young readers will remember.

Perfect for ages 6 to 10 (grades 2 to 5), classrooms, homeschools, family read-alouds, and early independent readers who enjoy realistic historical settings.

Inside you will find:

• A cozy village tale with faith-aware themes presented with care
• Everyday history children can picture, including buggies, slate boards, and beeswax candle making
• Short chapters that encourage "one more"
• Vocabulary that stretches young readers while staying approachable
• Gentle lessons on sharing, stewardship, and the power of small kindnesses

Themes and topics: gratitude, patience, courage, family and neighborly care, work and craft, seasons, storms, and the science and stewardship of bees.

If you love classic, comforting stories that feel right at home beside the fire, Patricia P. Willoughby and The Forest's Gift will shine on your shelf and in your memories long after the last page.

Author: S. C. Laxton
Imprint: School of Hope Publishers