Sarah, Plain and Tall: Volume 1

Patricia MacLachlan

Nov 2008 · Sarah, Plain and Tall Book 1 · Katherine Tegen Books · Narrated by Glenn Close

About this audiobook

This beloved Newbery Medal–winning book is the first of five books in Patricia MacLachlan's chapter book series about the Witting family.

Set in the late nineteenth century and told from young Anna's point of view, Sarah, Plain and Tall tells the story of how Sarah Elisabeth Wheaton comes from Maine to the prairie to answer Papa's advertisement for a wife and mother. Before Sarah arrives, Anna and her younger brother Caleb wait and wonder. Will Sarah be nice? Will she sing? Will she stay?

This children's literature classic is perfect for fans of Laura Ingalls Wilder's Little House on the Prairie books, historical fiction, and timeless stories using rich and beautiful language, and it's a strong choice for independent reading. Sarah, Plain and Tall gently explores themes of abandonment, loss, and love. 

Read the rest of the Sarah books by Patricia MacLachlan: Skylark, Caleb’s Story, More Perfect than the Moon, and Grandfather’s Dance.

Ratings and reviews

One of my favorite books of all times. I love the movies as well. I recommend this book to all that have not read it yet.

It is the best story

About the author

Patricia MacLachlan (1938-2022) was the celebrated author of many timeless books for young readers, including Sarah, Plain and Tall, winner of the Newbery Medal. She was also the author of many beloved picture books, a number of which she cowrote with her daughter, Emily.

Glenn Close starred in the Emmy-nominated Hallmark Hall of Fame version of Sarah, Plain and Tall. An Academy Award nominee, Ms. Close has distinguished herself in such critically acclaimed films as The Big Chill, Fatal Attraction, and Dangerous Liaisons.