The Boxcar Children Theme of Women and Femininity

In the world of The Boxcar Children, there's a clear line drawn between the types of work that women and men do. When the Alden children make an abandoned boxcar their home, Jessie settles into her role as housekeeper and mother figure. Though Henry often looks to her for advice, she plays a secondary role in decision-making—her main job is taking care of the family, which includes domestic duties like cooking and cleaning. She's also the family nurturer, looking after the younger children while Henry works during the day.

1. What are Jessie's skills outside of taking care of her family? Name at least one.
2. If you were trying to survive in the wilderness, who would you want as your companion, Jessie or Henry? Why?
3. In what ways does Violet seem like a Jessie-in-training? Are there ways in which she resists the Jessie mold? If so, how? If not, why does this matter?

The Boxcar Children emphasizes Jessie's role as a nurturer over her other characteristics and skills.

Jessie's role as housekeeper is reflective of society's values when the book was written in 1924.