"Shokojo Seira" is an adaptation of Frances Hodgson Burnett's classic "A Little Princess". My second favorite version of the story was also produced in Japan, an anime,titled "Princess Sarah" (1985). "Shokojo Seira" places the story in modern-day Japan and makes Sara (renamed Seira) a teenager. I liked the lead actress, Mirai Shida. Despite some changes to Sara's personality, Shida captured the more important aspects, including her selflessness.

After being raised in India, Seira returns to Japan to attend a boarding school. However, when her rich father dies, the school's headmistress forces her to work as a maid. In this version, the headmistress at least has reasons for hating Seira, though it is still appalling to watch her treat Seira horribly. Becky is changed to a male love interest named Kaito Miura. Their love story was sweet, but I felt the episode where they visit his hometown was a bit out-of-place. Masami (Ermengarde in the novel) kind of annoyed me, while I thought Maria (Lavinia) was probably the most interesting.

SS was a sweet story but unremarkable story. I think some might find the series frustrating, because the bullying scenes were a bit over-the-top. However, I still think most people will enjoy this drama. I also recommend the 1986 (find it on YouTube) and 1995 versions, though the latter does not really follow the book.