It is the late 1890s, and young Lucinda's parents are leaving New York City to spend a year in Italy. The 10-year-old girl is happy to stay behind with Miss Peters, a teacher, in her apartment. What a wonderful year it is. On roller skates, Lucinda flies through her neighborhood, making friends with cab drivers, fruit vendors, and policemen. Each day is filled with adventure and discovery. In the evenings Lucinda reads Shakespeare with her uncle. She quickly falls under the spell of the bard's comedies. But when she sees the misfortunes of others, she begins to understand tragedy, too. First published in 1936, this sparkling story of an energetic, imaginative girl still enchants generations of readers. With Kate Forbes' warm narration, Lucinda's enthusiasm and the sights and sounds of old New York fill each chapter.