"Little Miss By-The-Day" by Lucille Van Slyke is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the whimsical young woman named Felicia Day, known affectionately as "Miss By-The-Day," who captivates those around her with her unconventional charm and kind spirit. The book explores themes of love, growth, and self-discovery as Felicia's adventures unfold against a backdrop of vivid characters and enchanting settings. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Felicia as a child of seven, full of curiosity and imagination. Her unique personality is highlighted through her interactions with the people around her and her beloved dog, Babiche. The narrative reveals the complexities of Felicia’s childhood life, from living under the strict rules of her grandfather, Major Trenton, to her longing for freedom and connection, especially with her mysterious mother, Octavia. As the opening unfolds, we glimpse Felicia’s tender relationships and the poignant moments that shape her identity, setting the stage for her journey of self-exploration and the discovery of her mother's legacy in the garden they both love. (This is an automatically generated summary.)