Many Latter Day Saints crossed oceans to go to the promised land, and they converged to travel together across the states. True Sisters tells the story of many of the women and their families and what they endure as they travel the thirteen hundred miles. Through hardships, the sisters keep one another sane and help them through their tragedies and their triumphs. They keep their faith and although they may question the new polygamy rule.
The reader comes to know Jessie, a hardworking farmer and her two brothers, as they hope to build a successful farm in the new lands. Anne, who is Gentile, not believing in the faith, but following her husband, who is a devout Mormon. Nannie and Ellie, true sisters, and Ellie's husband Andrew, as well as Maude, an older woman, whose mid-wife and doctoring skills become a valued commodity on the trip.
Based on a true story, I was enraptured in these women's lives from the first page. The strength of these women really shines through, as well as their heartbreak and their faith. From starving near to death to freezing in the snow-covered mountains, they test their faith and their choices. Beautifully written, I highly recommend it!
Thank you for introducing me to Sandra Dallas' work. She's a Colorado author who is new to me.
ReplyDeleteAll the best,
Barbara
www.barbarakrichardson.com
I was fascinated by this story. Most of these women trailblazers did everything the men did, but, they also had babies along the way. A woman's side of the immigration story is rarely told, that's why I enjoyed this book. I read this book in less than a day. It's rare that I finish a book that quickly- that's how much I enjoyed this one.
ReplyDeleteAll the male characters in this book seem to be fairly naive. Some of the male characters also come off as selfish, weak-minded and arrogant. Even though, the men (especially in that time era) truly believed they were doing the right thing for their religion and their family (along with polygamy). Some of the decisions the women's husbands make might irritate you. Though, I overlooked this as the focus of this book is on the strong women in this story and the relationships they create in the absolute worst of conditions.