This is a timely novel concerned with the greatest problem of the day: the relationship between people. The action takes place in a small village but many of the issues that confront the world are there, sharpened by the tighter focus—the relationship between peoples of different backgrounds and beliefs, the relation of society to the social outcast, of respectability to the victims of outcasts—and underlying it all is the question of how we can live democracy instead of talk it.

Nearby is a New England village with a typical country school. To the school comes a young teacher from the city, Mary Rowen. She is dedicated to her profession and brings to her work a genuine interest, warm love for children, a sense of strict fair play, and an original and keen mind. Rumor, gossip, superstition, ignorance, and plain unwillingness to give new ideas and new thoughts a chance ride the town; and Mary Rowen's first year is a severe test of patience and courage and belief in duty. That she wins through holds promise for the Mary Rowens everywhere and for what they are trying to do. Closely woven with the story is the unfolding of a gentle romance, as poignant and persuasive as the passage of time from one season to another.

This is a book that will quicken patriotism as it stirs responsibility, for within its pages is the conviction that one cannot embrace the wonders of a land without becoming aware of its problems and without being willing to help in their solution. Elizabeth Yates feels keenly about many things and she writes of them deeply. Miss Yates' prose is always sheer joy to read—blended as it is with quiet humor, excellent action and vivid characterization. In searching words she makes it clear that, in a democracy, is is every child who counts and that the problems to be solved are always nearby.

From the dust jacket of the Book Club Edition

This warm, inspiring story—set in a rural New England village called Nearby—is brought to life through the eyes of Mary, the new teacher who devotes herself to changing prejudices and lifting her students’ minds and hearts to a higher place. With beautiful description, award-winning author Elizabeth Yates weaves a complex plot packed with endearing characters and powerful messages.

“Nearby is a wonderful example of literature that can address deep, mature issues—such as prostitution, suicide, neglect, and lust versus love—in a way that is not overly descriptive or dark, maintaining an underlying feeling of light and hope. Especially for older teenagers and adults, this clean language version of Nearby is a deeply inspiring book with one of the most beautiful, feel-good endings to a book I have ever read.” –Jenny Phillips

From The Good and The Beautiful website