Harriet Beecher Stowe (1811-1891) made her name as an abolitionist and author most noted for her 1832 breakout novel "Uncle Tom's Cabin." Here are collected three of Beecher's most treasured short stories. In "Betty's Bright Idea," a sweet young girl forms a bond with a poor family and is determined to help them make a better life for themselves. In "Deacon Pitkin's farm," a young boy whose family can no longer afford payments on their house chooses to forego schooling in order to help make money for his struggling kin. Lastly, "The First Christmas in New England" documents the first Christmas celebration of the pilgrims from the Mayflower, a truly joyous and heartwarming tale. All three stories create a special portrait of American life as seen by the less fortunate.