‘But she had to go to bed first, and all night she slept soundly on her bed of hay, dreaming of nothing but of shining mountains with red roses all over them, among which happy little Snowflake went leaping in and out.’

Heidi tells the story of a young girl who lives in the Swiss Alps with her grumpy grandfather. She lives an idyllic life, until she is forcefully taken to Frankfurt by her aunt to live as a companion for an invalid girl. Will Heidi be able to return to her home in the mountains?

Written ‘for children and those who love children’, this charming bestseller will leave you overwhelmed.

Heidi is a perfectly delightful read. I remember reading it when I was in school and loving it as much as I loved re-reading it right now. Some stories and story tellers always have their magic to sprinkle some into your life. This particular book is one such magic! And add to it, a foreword by none other than Ruskin Bond, makes this book is simply perfect.

Telling the story of a girl called Heidi who lives in Alps with her grandfather. One day her seemingly ideal life is disturbed when she is taken to California by her aunt to be a companion for an invalid girl. The story is about her experiences there, the turbulence she goes through due to this change and how she copes up with it.

Written in lucid language, Heidi is something you will not only relate but also fall in love with. She is a charmer, undoubtedly. For her age, she is innocent, naughty and at the same time has a large heart. She has a tenderness that is displayed through her actions and a cute childish side that instantly warms up your heart as a reader. Reading Heidi simply puts a smile on your face, irrespective of how your mood was before you started reading it. This book tells you about the power of faith and the magic prayers hold.  It shows you the beauty of nature and the immense joy one gets on being able to help a fellow human being.

Strongly recommended, as the book says for children and for those who love children. This is one classic that must not be missed.

Heidi by Johanna Spyri is a beloved Swiss novel first published in 1881. It has since become a classic of children’s literature, known for its themes of nature, family, and the transformative power of love and kindness. The story is centered around a young orphan girl named Heidi, who is sent to live with her grandfather in the Swiss Alps. The novel explores her adventures, the relationships she forms, and her impact on the lives of those around her.

Here’s a summary of Heidi:

Plot Summary

Heidi, a cheerful and free-spirited girl, is sent to live with her grandfather, a reclusive man who lives in a remote cabin in the Swiss Alps. Her aunt, who is unable to care for her, hopes that the fresh mountain air and solitude will improve her health. Initially, Heidi’s grandfather is gruff and unsociable, but over time, his heart softens, and he comes to love his granddaughter deeply.

In the mountains, Heidi thrives, making friends with the local villagers, especially with a boy named Peter, a young goatherd. She spends her days playing in the stunning natural surroundings, enjoying the freedom and beauty of the Alps.

However, Heidi’s life changes when her aunt comes to take her back to Frankfurt, where she is sent to live with a wealthy but sickly girl named Clara. Clara is unable to walk and relies on a wheelchair, and Heidi’s new role is to be her companion and friend. While in Frankfurt, Heidi becomes homesick for the Alps and longs to return to her grandfather.

Through her kindness, joy, and the love she shows Clara, Heidi helps to bring a sense of hope and joy to Clara’s life. Eventually, Heidi’s happiness and optimism work wonders, and Clara begins to recover both physically and emotionally. After a series of events and emotional growth for both Heidi and Clara, Heidi eventually returns to her grandfather in the Alps, where she finds peace and happiness.

Themes and Lessons

1. The Healing Power of Nature: A central theme in Heidi is the healing and restorative power of nature. The beauty of the Swiss Alps plays a significant role in Heidi’s development, as well as in the healing process of Clara, who finds strength and joy through Heidi’s encouragement and the mountain air.

2. The Importance of Family and Love: Heidi’s relationship with her grandfather evolves from one of distance and indifference to deep familial love and affection. The theme of family is reinforced throughout the story, particularly in the bonds Heidi forms with Clara and the villagers.

3. Optimism and Kindness: Heidi is a character whose optimism and kindness affect everyone around her. Her positive outlook, even in difficult circumstances, helps heal the emotional wounds of those she encounters. The story illustrates the power of a kind heart and a positive attitude in overcoming adversity.

4. Childhood Innocence and Purity: Heidi’s innocence and purity of heart are key to her character. She approaches life with a sense of wonder and joy, and her simplicity and natural goodness have a profound impact on everyone she meets.

5. Friendship and Compassion: The relationships Heidi forms with others, particularly Clara and Peter, emphasize the value of friendship and compassion. The book shows how people from different backgrounds and circumstances can form deep and meaningful connections.

Impact and Legacy

Heidi has had a lasting impact on literature and culture. It has been translated into numerous languages and adapted into films, television series, plays, and even operas. The character of Heidi has become an enduring symbol of innocence, joy, and resilience.

The story’s universal themes of kindness, family, and the love for nature continue to resonate with readers of all ages, making Heidi a timeless classic.

What makes Heidi so special is how it appeals to both children and adults. The novel’s simplicity and heartwarming narrative carry powerful messages that are easy to understand but deep enough to offer meaningful reflections on life, relationships, and personal growth.

Are you thinking of revisiting Heidi or perhaps exploring it for the first time?

HEIDI BY JOHANNA SPYRI