American Girls Handy Book: How to Amuse Yourself and Others

Take a step back in time with this delightful re-issue of the Beard sisters’ classic collection of crafts, activities and adventures, The American Handy Girls Book. Written and released just five years after their brother Daniel’s American Boys Handy Book, the girls’ companion is intended to “impress upon the minds of girls the fact that they all possess talent and ability to achieve more than they suppose possible”. Inside you will find a treasury of detailed instructions for all manner of engaging and productive projects including traditional crafts such as:

Watercolor painting
Needlework
Bookmaking
Perfumery
Doll decorating
Clay modeling
Plant identification and flower preservation
And much more!

In addition you’ll find instructions for classic parlor games (including some forgotten favorites!), lawn games, plaster casting, and fun domestic projects like holiday-themed table-settings, and homemade candy recipes. Throughout, the Beard sisters maintain an enthusiastic and helpful voice, encouraging girls to explore creative, challenging, and fun activities. As a glimpse into the world of Victorian era American femininity and as a resource for rainy afternoons and long summer days, The American Girls Handy Book is a treasure not to be missed!