Changes for Samantha - Book Discussion
- Admin
- Jun 14
- 3 min read
Hi everyone! I hope you all were able to read Changes for Samantha so we can discuss it. Sorry I was a few days late! If you don't have copies of these books going forward at home, you can check to see if a local library has them, and if no libraries have them, you can make an account at the Library of Congress's Internet Archive and check them out there.
Changes for Samantha, the last book in Samantha's series, is about how when Samantha moves to New York City, her best friend Nellie's parents die and she is sent to an orphanage in the city. The orphanage is abusive and cruel, so when it seems like Nellie won't see her sisters ever again, it takes all of Samantha's strength to make a plan to free the girls and find them a new home.
When I was rereading this book, several things came to mind about the themes within, and both their historical context and what it means to be a girl in 2025. I don't want these posts to be too long, so I'll list my thoughts, and let you discuss these topics as well in the comments!
Now that her Grandmary is married, Samantha is now living in the city full-time. How do you think the change in setting affects what Samantha sees in her day to day life?
Away from the well-to-do neighborhoods in Mount Bedford, Samantha still lives in luxury in New York City, but sees more suffering and people in poverty than she saw in Mount Bedford - especially when she travels to find her uncle.
Nellie lives in an abusive orphanage, where girls like her are trained to be maids. What do you thinks this parallels in real life?
What I thought about when I was reading this was how some public schools in the United States in poorer areas train students to be diligent workers, while punishing any slight mistake or infraction. While richer schools allow more diversity in thought, poorer schools are more rigid, trying to train students to enter the workforce
Gard and Cornelia's maid, Gertrude, is portrayed as a strict servant who is rude to others, and is even ruder to Samantha when she discovers Nellie and her sisters in the attic. Why do you think that is?
There are some poor people who hate other poor people - they think they don't work "hard" enough, they think they need to conform, that they shouldn't get help from the government, etc. etc. I get the feeling that Gertrude is one of those kinds of people, just in an earlier time period.
Samantha is able to use her position in society for good when she rescues Nellie and her sisters from the orphanage. While a lot of people like Samantha are able to use their positions for good, others ignore the real world and what's happening. Why do you think that is?
It's easy for people to be comfortable with their privilege and simply ignore things if they aren't happening to them. That's usually because either there's a lack of education or a lack of empathy. At first, Samantha wasn't educated about any of the things happening to people like Nellie, but once she was able to know, she was able to have empathy, and do all the things she did in the series!
Next week, we will be reading Meet Kirsten!
What a compelling discussion on Changes for Samantha! The character's transformation throughout the story—both emotionally and in terms of self-expression—is deeply inspiring. It actually reminded me of how confidence and identity are captured in real life through creative arts. As a Lingerie Photographer, I often witness people embracing their individuality in front of the lens, similar to how Samantha grows into her own strength in the book. Photography, much like literature, has the power to tell a personal story and celebrate inner confidence. Loved reading your insights—thank you for such a thoughtful post!
It’s amazing how every post here brings something new to think about. I really value your work. cheapestsmm
This discussion really highlights how Changes for Samantha explores the complexities of class, empathy, and social responsibility. Gertrude’s harshness feels like a reflection of internalized struggle—how some individuals, even within marginalized groups, adopt the very systems that once oppressed them. Samantha’s growth is such a powerful reminder that awareness can lead to action. In today’s world, platforms that empower individuals—whether through storytelling or entrepreneurship—can make a real difference. If you're exploring how to resell goods or grow your eCommerce business, click now for tools that help you turn knowledge into opportunity.
Changes for Samantha continues to resonate with its layered portrayal of class, power, and perception. The contrast between Samantha’s privilege and Nellie’s hardship is striking—and your reflection on how modern institutions can mirror these dynamics is so important. Gertrude’s behavior feels like a reflection of internalized struggle, where proximity to power can sometimes breed harshness toward those still struggling. At SF Moving, we understand that transitions—whether physical or emotional—carry deep meaning. Whether you're navigating change or seeking support, our Moving Services and Commercial Moving solutions are designed with care and respect—this post reminded me how every move, like every story, deserves dignity.
What a touching and reflective discussion on Changes for Samantha! The way the book explores personal growth, emotional shifts, and the impact of environment on our well-being really resonated with me. It actually reminded me of my recent stay at the Best Hills View Resort in Alwar, where the serene landscapes and peaceful hills allowed me the kind of quiet introspection that this book encourages. Sometimes, a peaceful natural escape complements a thoughtful read so beautifully. For anyone looking to unwind and reconnect with themselves—much like Samantha's journey—this resort offers a perfect setting. The hill views are simply breathtaking and offer the tranquility needed for both relaxation and reflection.