A Fortunate Term

"A Fortunate Term" is a book published by prolific novelist Angela Brazil, who was best known for her school novels that target teenage girls. The 1913 book chronicles the misadventures and encounters of a group of students during their term at a boarding school. The protagonist of the tale is Joan Carr, a lively and ambitious young student starting her first term at the esteemed Briarcroft School. Joan strikes up fast ties with many of her students, notably the naughty twins Pauline and Priscilla Peel and the gentle Muriel Burnitt. They manage the pleasures and pitfalls of school life together, navigating everything from extracurricular activities and interpersonal relationships to academic goals. The girls face a number of challenges throughout the term, including as competitions in their academic fields, athletic events, and interpersonal disputes. Along the journey, they develop as a group and as individuals, learning important lessons about friendship, loyalty, and tenacity. The girls eventually come out stronger and more self-assured, having created enduring relationships and priceless experiences, despite the unavoidable highs and lows of school life. "A Fortunate Term" gives readers a wonderful and endearing look into the world of boarding school life for young girls in the early 20th century, while also capturing the spirit of adventure and friendship that is distinctive of Angela Brazil's school novels.