Mary Jane Holmes 
The English Orphans; Or, A Home in the New World 

Mary Jane Holmes’ novel, ‘The English Orphans; Or, A Home in the New World, ‘ provides an insightful look into the struggles faced by two young siblings who are left orphaned and seeking refuge in the United States. Written in the mid-19th century, Holmes’ literary style showcases her attention to detail and ability to evoke emotions in her readers. Set against the backdrop of the New World, the novel explores themes of resilience, family, and identity in the face of adversity. Holmes’ rich descriptions of characters and settings transport the reader to another time and place, making the story come alive with vivid imagery. As a prominent American novelist of her time, Holmes’ work continues to resonate with audiences, shedding light on the challenges faced by immigrants and orphaned children in a new country. ‘The English Orphans; Or, A Home in the New World’ is a must-read for those interested in historical fiction and exploring the immigrant experience in America.

About the author

Mary Jane Holmes (1825-1907) was a prolific American novelist and short story writer, renowned for her popular domestically themed narratives which resonated with the middle class of her era. Born in Brookfield, Massachusetts, Holmes was a literary prodigy who published around 39 novels throughout her life, including one of her well-regarded works, ‘The English Orphans; Or, A Home in the New World’ (1855), which paints a vivid picture of the immigrant experience and the challenges of adapting to American society. In her literary career, Holmes often addressed themes of family, womanhood, and morality, and is credited with being one of the bestselling authors of her time. ‘The English Orphans’, like many of her novels, reflects Holmes’s adeptness at creating strong female characters and engaging in social critique through narrative fiction. In Holmes’s hands, the novel became a tool not only for entertainment but also for subtly challenging the societal norms of her day. Her work is characterized by her empathetic portrayal of characters and intricately plotted stories which captivate readers. Despite the waning scholarly attention posthumously, Holmes’s contribution to nineteenth-century American literature and her influence on the development of sentimental and domestic fiction secure her place as a notable figure in the literary canon of her time.