Thimble Summer

Garnet is the protagonist of the story, and the narrative unfolds through her perspective. She is a curious, joyful, and optimistic young girl, “halfway between nine and ten” (4). Garnet grows up with her parents and brother on a farm in Esau Valley, Wisconsin. Her immediate social environment—a small rural community—is relatively limited, and as a young girl navigating life in the 1930s, she spends most of her time at home. Despite this, Garnet challenges the traditional gender roles of her time. She is described as a tomboy, with a “freckled nose,” eyes “almost green and almost brown,” and overalls (4). She has a “boyish” attitude and finds joy in activity and adventure, something that sets her apart from her female friends. Garnet feels restricted, and driven by her vivid imagination, she experiences feelings of escapism. She longs to explore the world and travel to faraway places beyond the family farm. This desire for freedom and independence propels her into youthful adventures that shape her character’s journey. 

Besides her personal dreams, Garnet is also shaped by her historical context. She is a child growing up during the Great Depression.