Hattie Big Sky by Kirby Larson, review
I just finished this fine piece of young adult historical fiction. Ms. Larson first became interested in the story after finding out that her Great-Grandmother had homesteaded a claim by herself. She began researching and soon developed a fictional story based on her findings.
It’s an interesting take, set in 1918 with the first World War in full swing and the influenza epidemic headed that way. Hattie Brooks and her cat, Mr. Whiskers, head out to Montana to prove up a claim of 320 acres that she inherited. We learn the hardships right along with her, which makes the story all the more accessible.
What struck me most was how little we’ve changed as people. During the first World War there was such anti-German sentiment that they changed the name “sauerkraut” to “liberty cabbage.” Freedom fries, anyone?
The writing is solid, the characters real. While it doesn’t pack the punch of A Northern Light by Jennifer Donnelly, readers who liked that book will find much to admire here. Reading this book is not a bad way to spend a few evenings.
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I haven’t read Hattie Big Sky, but just finished two historical fiction books.
Bread and Roses, Too by Katherine Paterson is the story of two children who were involved either directly or indirectly in the worker strikes at mills in Lawrence, MA of Jan 1912. The two meet throughout the book, but their paths really converge when they (as many other children of immigrant workers) are sent to Barre, VT to be cared for during the strike. As with every book by Katherine Paterson that I have ever read, the characters come to life and I felt as though I was feeling their struggles and suffering right with them. The injustice of big corporations and the strength, love, and loyalty of family and friends is strongly felt. The writing magnificent.
Caleb’s Story by Sarah Maclachlan. I read this out loud to my 8 and 10 year old boys, who are able and love to read. What a poignant family reunion story and the power of reading and writing.