* A review for the "My Favorite Book" column

Frances Hodgson Burnett's "Little Lord Fauntleroy", also known as "Little Lord Fauntleroy", tells the story of seven-year-old Cedric, who is fatherless and lives with his mother. One day, Cedric learns he is the sole grandson and heir to the powerful Earl of Dorincourt in England. Upon moving in with his grandfather, the boy carries a fervent heart, admiration, and pure love for what he perceives as a generous, kind old man. Cedric is unaware that his grandfather is, in fact, a domineering, bitter, and selfish man who initially has no intention of loving him.

The Earl of Dorincourt, however, does not realize how lovely and endearing Cedric is. Cedric becomes a bright spot in the story and in the Earl's life. He is intelligent, kind, small yet very sociable. He possesses a compassionate heart and consistently brings positive energy to everyone. This intelligent, well-behaved child is so endearing that he wins hearts and spreads joy, captivating his grandfather from their first meeting.

The Earl of Dorincourt is a tyrannical, unpleasant old man, made even more irritable by his ailments. Yet, through Cedric's innocent eyes, the boy sees only a grandfather who welcomed him, provided him with superior material conditions, and helped those around him with kindness. Cedric believes his grandfather is a respectable and likable person. Seeing himself reflected in those innocent eyes, the Earl is stunned: "To see his own ugly traits and selfish motives transformed into beauty and generosity through the simple gaze of a child was truly a unique experience in life."

The edition, published in 2019 by Dinh Ti Books in collaboration with Van Hoc Publishing House, was translated by Viet Anh. *Photo: Fahasa*

The Earl unconsciously wants to maintain that good image in his grandson's eyes. The pure trust and love of the child make him feel something new, like an old tree steeped in darkness suddenly warmed by the sun. Initially, he fiercely declares he does not want the boy to tarnish his reputation. Later, however, he becomes the most doting grandparent. The question Earl Dorincourt frequently asks Cedric is: "Do you want anything else? Is there anything you wish for that you do not have yet?", ready to give his grandson all the best things in the world.

Previously, the Earl rarely goes to church, but now he eagerly takes his grandson. He also often rides horses with Cedric throughout the region. He even reconnects with his sister, whom he has not seen in 35 years, inviting her to visit. These actions serve a simple purpose: to show off his grandson. Whether he has an opportunity or not, he finds excuses to introduce his adorable grandson.

The story's charm comes from Cedric's innocent sociability, which allows many random events to naturally converge. Ultimately, "Little Lord Fauntleroy" is a charming, readable children's book with a gentle fairy-tale quality. It offers a pleasant and refreshing experience, especially during this children's month.

Minh Trai

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