Nelly's First Schooldays is a children's novel focusing on a young girl excited to start school alongside her peers. The story delves into the experiences of a girl recently adopted by a new family, eager to join her classmates and meet her teacher. Through Nelly's eyes, the narrative explores the struggles of living in poverty, particularly as her friends and their families endure difficult circumstances. The Harrow family faces challenges such as illness and the hardships of domestic work. The eldest daughter of the family suffers from a debilitating condition caused by years of labor. Despite these difficulties, the protagonist remains hopeful and determined to make the most of her school experience. Her journey includes developing friendships, facing conflicts with a classmate, and learning important lessons about forgiveness and understanding. The story emphasizes the importance of kindness, community, and resilience in overcoming adversity, highlighting how personal growth occurs even in the face of life's challenges.