ñPatty's Butterfly Daysî by Carolyn Wells is a lively and engaging novel that follows the adventures of Patty Fairfield, a young woman enjoying the vibrancy of summer and the joys of youth. Set in the early 20th century, the story captures PattyÍs experiences as she embarks on various activities that contribute to her personal growth and self-discovery. The novel portrays PattyÍs summer filled with social activities, family life, and friendships. Her days are marked by a mix of humor and romance, as she navigates the challenges and delights of young adulthood. The title reflects the lighthearted and carefree nature of PattyÍs summer, symbolizing the transformative and fleeting moments of youth. Through her adventures, Patty learns important lessons about herself and her relationships with others. The novel highlights the significance of family, the excitement of new friendships, and the impact of summer experiences on personal development. Overall, ñPatty's Butterfly Daysî is a charming exploration of youthful exuberance and growth, blending humor and romance with the everyday joys and challenges of early 20th-century life.
Carolyn Wells (1862–1942) is best known for her children's books, poetry, and mystery thrillers. Wells, who was raised in Rahway, New Jersey, showed an early aptitude for writing and went on to become a prolific and creative writer. Early in her career, Wells published multiple volumes of poetry and hilarious verse, which helped her establish her reputation as a poet and humourist. But her contributions to the mystery genre—especially her detective novels with well-known sleuths like Fleming Stone and Pennington Wise—are arguably what she is most known for. Wells was a prolific writer as well as an active participant in a number of literary and social groups. She was a member of the Mystery Writers of America and the Poetry Society of America, among other esteemed literary associations. Even though her novels are today regarded as detective fiction masterpieces from the early 20th century, Wells's influence goes beyond the mystery subgenre. She was a talented writer who flourished in a variety of genres, and her body of work still inspires and amuses readers to this day.