Little Lord Fauntleroy by Frances Hodgson Burnett is praised for its uplifting and heartfelt narrative, and its strong moral core appeals to readers of all ages. However, some critics find the story overly sentimental and its protagonist improbably virtuous. Overall, it's a charming tale with enduring themes of kindness and nobility that continue to resonate.

Young readers, aged 8-12, who delight in classic, heartwarming tales of kindness and transformation will enjoy Little Lord Fauntleroy by Frances Hodgson Burnett. Fans of The Secret Garden and A Little Princess will find similar themes of benevolence and charm in this story.

Little Lord Fauntleroy by Frances Hodgson Burnett tells the story of Cedric Errol, a kind and empathetic seven-year-old living in modest circumstances in New York with his mother after his father's death. Cedric learns he is heir to his grandfather's earldom in England, leading him and his mother to move there. Cedric's innocence and kindness transform his initially aloof and cynical grandfather into a generous and loving man.

Heartwarming / Inspirational / Contemplative / Romantic / Bittersweet

- Little Lord Fauntleroy was first published in 1885, and quickly became a bestseller, influencing children's fashion with its depiction of a velvet suit and lace collar worn by the protagonist.
- Frances Hodgson Burnett’s creation of the character's appearance significantly impacted boys' fashion in the late 19th century, leading to the "Fauntleroy suit" becoming a popular style for young boys.
- The novel played a significant role in popularizing the notion of the "rags-to-riches" story and has been adapted into numerous films and stage productions since its initial release.

Frances Hodgson Burnett

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore Little Lord Fauntleroy reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read Little Lord Fauntleroy | SuperSummary

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore Little Lord Fauntleroy and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Little Lord Fauntleroy Summary and Study Guide

chapter

chapterType

section

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-3

Little Lord Fauntleroy Chapters 1-3 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 4-6

Little Lord Fauntleroy Chapters 4-6 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 7-9

Little Lord Fauntleroy Chapters 7-9 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 10-12

Little Lord Fauntleroy Chapters 10-12 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 13-15

Little Lord Fauntleroy Chapters 13-15 Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

Little Lord Fauntleroy Character Analysis

theme

Themes

Little Lord Fauntleroy Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Little Lord Fauntleroy Symbols & Motifs

quote

citation

Important Quotes

Little Lord Fauntleroy Important Quotes

primaryCharacter

Essay Topics

Little Lord Fauntleroy Essay Topics

Little Lord Fauntleroy

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Little Lord Fauntleroy?

Reading Age

Book Details