My Antonia

Oh my. First I feel like I owe an apology. My reading has fallen sorely behind. I'm not sure what I've been so busy doing, but I've been busy apparently. Hopefully my schedule will even out soon.

My Antonia

by Willa Cather

This is a classic. This is a novel first published in 1918, and by a woman. Which at the time, there were very few women writers. Willa Cather wrote three books about Pioneer life, one called O Pioneers! And the one I read, My Antonia. This was my selection for my virtual discussion group. There are so many classic novels that I haven't read, and I though this one looked like a good choice, without being too controversial.

The story was divided up into 5 shorter pieces, and each was actually the story of Jim and the events of his life, many of which involved or included Antonia, a Bohemian transplant to Nebraska. This book does not spare the details of the harsh life on the prairie for settlers and immigrants, I'll give it that. Death and hard times were very common in the pioneer days. The story goes from Jim and Antonia's youth to their mid-forties or so, when life has changed for both of them.

While I was glad to have read this book, I can't say that I would highly recommend it. To be honest, as far as Pioneer life goes, I would find Laura Ingalls Wilder much more interesting of a read. But My Antonia is a nicely told story. It flows nicely, and the voice is consistent. It does leave out some of the details though. There were many times where I would have liked a little more description or clarification.

Overall, a nice read. If you want to read one of the great classics, pick this book up. But if you want to read something gripping that keeps you going back for more, I would recommend you pass this book by.

The Storekeeper's Daughter

by Wanda Brunstetter


Well, I simply had to go back and read the first book by Wanda Brunstetter. And I will say this, read them in order. I knew what was going to happen in this one, and I found myself anticipating it, and it almost made it difficult to read. I mean, I got caught up in the lives of these people. I wanted them to make different choices, different decisions. And I found myself crying along with their pain and sharing their joy as well. Basically, another great book. And yes, this has a lot of the spiritual stuff in it as well, so if that's not your thing...

Once again though, I find myself amazed at the Amish people. I know for a fact that the author has not taken liberties with the generalities of the Amish people. What we are reading, is very much how life is among the Plain people. The whole aspect of Amish courting is amazing, and the fact that before every decision is made, a quick prayer is sent off to ask for guidance. Simply amazing.

I am really looking forward to reading the third part of this series, The Bishop's Daughter. I feel like I know these people well, and there are some conclusions that must be brought into the lives of these families. I can only hope that my patience is rewarded.