Gone-Away Lake and Return to Gone-Away. Illustrated

Elizabeth Enright’s Gone-Away Lake and its sequel Return to Gone-Away are two beloved classics of American children's literature, offering a rich, imaginative escape into the wonders of childhood exploration, friendship, and forgotten places. With lyrical prose and deep emotional insight, Enright invites readers into a world where past and present meet in magical and meaningful ways.In Gone-Away Lake, cousins Portia and Julian stumble upon a hidden, abandoned lakeside community while exploring the countryside. There, they meet two elderly siblings, Minnehaha and Pindar, who have chosen to remain in the ghostly summer homes of years past. What follows is a summer filled with discovery, adventure, and a deepening connection between generations.Return to Gone-Away continues the story as the Blake family purchases one of the long-abandoned Victorian homes. With humor, curiosity, and a touch of mystery, the children help restore the house to its former glory, uncovering secrets and treasures that bring the past vividly to life.Enright’s storytelling is filled with warmth, gentle humor, and a strong sense of place. Her characters—curious, brave, and full of life—are instantly relatable and enduring. These novels celebrate curiosity, imagination, and the quiet adventures found just off the beaten path.sPerfect for readers who love classic stories of exploration and friendship, Gone-Away Lake and Return to Gone-Away are treasures to be enjoyed by generations.