The Little Girl by, KATHERINE MANSFIELD is a story of a little girl, Kezia who on account of
little understanding about her father, usually remained scared of him. She kept a distance from him, whenever he would be at home. She considered him to be as big as a giant. She would often get nervous and stutter while talking to him.

Once she was kept indoors on account of being affected by cold. Her grandmother advised her
to make a gift for her father’s birthday next week. She suggested she should make
a pin-cushion for him. Kezia made a beautiful pin-cushion; but she inadvertently made a mistake. She filled it with a paper that had father’s important speech on it. She was punished for that. This incident further estranged Kezia from her father.

She would often look at the neighbours, the Macdonalds playing joyously in their lawn.
Mr. Macdonald was such a good father and played so lovingly with his children. She wondered he might be a different sort of father.

Once her mother fell ill and was hospitalized. She was left alone at home under the care of the cook. At night she had a nightmare and woke up screaming. She found her father standing by her bedside. He picked her up and took her to her room. He tucked her up in his bed and soon fell asleep. Kezia felt secure lying near her. She realized her father was not as big as a giant. She felt the beating of her father’s loving and large heart. Finally she realized her father was also very loving.

Summary of 'The Little Girl'

The story 'The Little Girl' revolves around a young girl named Kezia who is sent to a convent school by her parents. Kezia finds it difficult to adjust to the strict and disciplined environment of the school. She longs for her home and family, especially her father, whom she adores.

Kezia's Fear and Loneliness
Kezia feels lonely and scared in the new environment. She misses her father's comforting presence and struggles to adapt to the harsh treatment from the teachers. Her fear and loneliness are portrayed vividly throughout the story.

Kezia's Special Bond with Her Father
Kezia shares a special bond with her father, who is her source of strength and comfort. She recalls the moments spent with him and yearns for his presence to feel safe and loved. This bond highlights the importance of parental love and support in a child's life.

Kezia's Rebellious Act
In an act of rebellion against the strict rules of the school, Kezia decides to disobey the nun's orders and return home to be with her father. This courageous decision reflects her strong attachment to her family and her desire for freedom and love.

The Theme of Family and Love
The story beautifully portrays the theme of family and love, emphasizing the significance of familial relationships in a child's life. Kezia's longing for her father and her yearning for love and acceptance highlight the importance of emotional connections in shaping a child's well-being.

Overall, 'The Little Girl' is a poignant tale of a young girl's struggle with fear, loneliness, and the longing for familial love and acceptance. It conveys a powerful message about the importance of family bonds and emotional support in a child's life.