'In these days, when the reader of fiction is swimming in a sea of selfish heroines loudly declaring that they must express themselves, or that they have a right to happiness, it is refreshing to meet Miss Bishop. The restrained manner of Mrs. Aldrich's writing makes this a telling tribute to all unselfish women. It is a constructive and in-spiring book, but not in the least old-fashioned-courage and unselfishness are not dated' - "New York Times". 'It is a fine theme, and it is finely treated, with a quiet simplicity and a sensitive understanding which make Ella an unforgettable character and her story one which is absorbing and at times deeply moving' - "Times Literary Supplement".'It is built round a keen and joyous personality...From cover to cover, it is a sparkling story' - "Christian Science Monitor". Ella Bishop came to college a healthy, country-bred girl, alive to every fresh sensation, with an infinite capacity for work, love, and understanding. Her abundant energy and devotion to learning made her a superior student, then a gifted teacher. But her smile concealed more than one youthful tragedy, and tragedy did not stop with youth.
A 1941 movie, "Cheers for Miss Bishop", was based on the novel. Bess Streeter Aldrich (1881-1954) became one of America's best-loved and most widely read writers in the first half of the twentieth century. "A Lantern in Her Hand", her most famous novel, has remained a favorite since 1928; it is also available in a Bison Books edition.