Change

Change is an important theme in the novel “Little Town on the Prairie” by Laura Ingalls Wilder. Change in the novel most affects Laura, for between the ages of 14 and 15, she undergoes a number of new experiences that affect her life in important ways.

Laura is generally not a fan of change. She dislikes nearly all change, and does her best to always keep things the same, both about herself, and in the world around her. Her favorite place in the world is to be at the homestead with her family, doing chores, and enjoying the beauty of the landscape. She looks unfavorably upon the nearby growing town of De Smet, which she takes to be a scar on the land.

During the winter months, the family moves to reside in the town, which is a change that Laura especially dislikes. She feels constricted and out...