interacting with the animals and people who live and work on the land becomes her cure. The shepherd Kate meets while traveling with her Uncle spells Seredy's idea out. "The sky gives me sunshine and rain. The ground gives me food and water. The sheep gives me clothing and my bed... Can money and schools give me more?" This is a theme Seredy returns to in many of her books. Reception Reviewer Anita Silvey calls The Good Master a "warm, appealing story". According to her "both children are well-realized characters in a book that contains, humor, adventure, and a vivid sense of rural Hungarian life." Children's literature expert May Hill Arbuthnot says that the book "was an instantaneous favorite with children... Hungarian festivals and legends... the work of the ranch... and the warm family life add color and charm to a delightful story." Kirkus Reviews gave the book a starred review for "books of remarkable merit", citing "the charm of the vigorous, dramatic, colorful background" and praising Seredy, noting "her exquisite illustrations carry the feel of the country of which she writes. One of the outstanding books this fall." The Good Master was a Newbery Honor book. It was also named a Junior Literary Guild selection, having been chosen by the Editorial Board consisting of Helen Ferris, Angelo Patri, Eleanor Roosevelt, and Mrs. Sidonie Gruenberg as an outstanding publication of the month for younger readers. It appears among the Top 100 books of the twentieth century for younger readers chosen by the State Library of Tasmania. Surprisingly, Seredy seems to be unknown (and untranslated) in her native Hungary, despite the fact that her story of the Good Master, and the sequel set in World War I are intensely about Hungary. References Further reading Eccleshare, Julia (editor), 1001 Children's Books You Must Read Before You Grow Up, Universe, 2009, pp. 476–7. 1935 American novels American children's novels Newbery Honor-winning works Novels set in Hungary Viking Press books 1935 children's books