Sarah's Quilt by Nancy E Turner

A sequel to These is My Words by Nancy E. Turner, Sarah's Quilt had so much that I loved in it. It changes the way you look at our easy life nowadays, as the main character goes through drought and loss of cattle, land, etc. If you have read and enjoyed the first book, I'm sure you'll like this one. I did think it was a bit unrealistic that so many major things happen in such a short amount of time, but it's still believable and very interesting to read. I can't decide if I liked this or the first one better; in the second, Sarah Prine has been through so much and has become an amazingly strong woman, but I think I liked her better young, bold, and naive. Still, this one was clean, and you can't argue with that! (If you're interested, here's a good review of the series.)

These is My Words by Nancy E. Turner

Another epistolary novel, this book is set in Arizona territory back in the 1800's. It has a realistic feel to it--it covers everything from the pioneer treks across the country to the first blood transfusions and hospitals. Set in a believable diary form, you really felt like you were watching Sarah Agnes Prine grow up. She begins her journey traveling in a wagon train (where she even meets up with some Mormon pioneers, among others) and ends . . .

No, I won't ruin it for you--besides, a description of just the story line doesn't quite do it justice--instead you have to read it, and you'll find yourself caught up in the life of this brave, believable pioneer woman. It made me really think about every day life back then and what my ancestors went through. Thanks to Jera & Amy for recommending this book!

*Disclaimer: There are some wild-west-ish parts that are a bit racy--one at the beginning and another mid-way through the book. Also a bit too much about the intimate life of the main characters, so be forewarned. I skipped them--they probably weren't too bad, but I'd rather skip parts than have them in my head! :) Hopefully you feel the same way.

Little House on the Prarie series by Laura Ingalls Wilder

This is a great series of books about Laura Ingalls Wilder. It talks about her life--how she lives in the prairie, a dugout and in lots of other homes.

My favorite book in this series is: On the banks of Plum Creek.


Jessica:  I grew up on these books and loved the pictures and stories.  As a mother, I thoroughly enjoy reading this series to my children.  I think it is so good for them to realize that life wasn't always as easy and convenient as it is now.  Plus the real-life situations the Ingalls family dealt with has helped spark discussion with my own children about how to deal with their problems.  A perfectly beautiful series!