Auteur: E. L. Huggins

Martha Finley (1828–1909) was an esteemed American author, best known for her Elsie Dinsmore series, a 28-volume series of children”s books which were highly popular in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Born in Chillicothe, Ohio, Finley was a prolific writer whose literary work primarily targeted young readers, often with a strong emphasis on Christian piety and morality. “The Power of Faith” is one of her numerous works that illustrate her consistent narrative approach, imbuing her storytelling with religious and ethical undertones. Finley”s literary style is marked by didactic plots and well-defined character types that serve as vessels to promote virtues such as honesty, faith, and obedience. Her writing was a part of larger cultural trends of Victorian America, which favored literature that reinforced social norms and Protestant values. Although her Elsie Dinsmore series overshadowed many of her other works, her contribution to children”s literature through other novels – including “The Power of Faith” – cannot be understated, as she sought to inculcate formative principles in her readers through engaging and instructive tales. Today, Finley”s works offer valuable insight into the pedagogical narratives and societal expectations of her time.