Books Like...

'Westering Women' by Sandra Dallas is about a group of women in the 1850s who agree to accompany two ministers and one's wife on a wagon train to the California gold fields to become wives for miners. The story details the hardships and disasters faced by these women along the way, including the fear of being murdered or being accused of murder. Despite the challenges, the book is seen as a testament to the human spirit and perseverance, capturing the struggles and twists of people in another era.

The plot of the book focuses on the journey of these women on the wagon train, depicting the struggles and trials of westward migration during that time period. The writing style is described as well-written, with likable characters and a plot that unfolds smoothly. The author, Sandra Dallas, is praised for her ability to capture the essence of the westward movement of pioneers without repeating herself, keeping the reader engaged from the beginning.

Where the Lost Wander is a historical fiction novel set during the westward movement in American history, following the journey of a wagon train heading to California. The story focuses on the perspectives of Naomi and John, as they narrate the incidents that occur during their trip, including their marriage, a tragic event involving an Indian, and the abduction of Naomi and her newborn brother by Indians. The book delves into the struggles, sorrows, and joys of the pioneers on the trail, portraying the harsh realities they faced during their hazardous journey.

The Librarian of Boone's Hollow by Kim Vogel Sawyer is a story set in Depression-era Appalachia, revolving around Addie Cowherd, a young woman who faces challenges in the small community of Boone's Hollow as she works as a horseback librarian. The book explores themes of faith, love, and community, with a focus on the relationships between characters and how they deal with less than ideal circumstances. Addie's journey of finding her place in the community, her budding writing career, and her interactions with other residents, especially Emmett and Nanny Fay, are central to the plot. The writing style of the book is described as rich in historical detail, with attention to setting and character development, creating a story that delves into the lives of the people in Black Mountain.

'No Man Knows My History: The Life of Joseph Smith' by Fawn M. Brodie is a controversial biography that delves into the life of the founder of the LDS Church, Joseph Smith Jr. The book offers a critical perspective on Smith's character, actions, and the origins of Mormonism. Brodie's writing style is described as well-researched, balanced, and engaging, providing readers with a detailed account of Smith's life from a non-Mormon viewpoint.

"Pioneer Girl: The Annotated Autobiography" by Laura Ingalls Wilder is a detailed account of her early life as a pioneer child of the prairie, offering a more authentic perspective than her well-known children's series. Through this autobiography, readers are taken on a journey back to the American Midwest in the 1800s, where Wilder reminisces about her childhood and the challenges faced by her family as pioneers. The writing style is engaging and offers a raw portrayal of pioneer life, enhanced by numerous annotations that provide additional context and historical background to the narrative.

'The Museum of Extraordinary Things' by Alice Hoffman is a historical novel set in New York City in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Coralie, the daughter of the owner of a museum featuring unusual exhibits, and Eddie, a young photographer searching for a missing woman. Against the backdrop of real events like the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire, the characters navigate themes of identity, love, and societal change. The narrative weaves together elements of mystery, romance, and coming-of-age, creating a rich tapestry of historical fiction with a touch of magic realism.

'The Awakening Land: The Trees, The Fields, & The Town' by Conrad Richter is a trilogy that follows the life of a young girl living in the Ohio or Illinois territory in the late 1800s to early 1900s. The story begins with the protagonist living with her family in a cabin in the woods, where they clear land for fields and gradually attract more settlers to the area. As the town grows, the narrative spans generations, showcasing the protagonist's journey from adolescence to old age, along with the lives of her children and grandchildren. delves into themes of family, community building, tragedy, drama, interactions with Native Americans, and the challenges of frontier life.

Richter's writing style is praised for its vivid descriptions that transport readers to the forested landscapes and pioneer settlements. Readers mention being drawn into the scenes to the extent that they can almost smell the forest air, highlighting the immersive quality of the storytelling. The trilogy captures the hardships and joys experienced by the characters, offering a believable portrayal of early American life and emphasizing the resilience of the pioneers in overcoming challenges.

Conjure Women by Afia Atakora is a historical novel set during and after the Civil War, focusing on the lives of black women practicing hoodoo in the antebellum South. The story follows Rue, a young slave girl who learns the art of healing and magic from her mother, May Belle, and later takes on the role of a conjure woman. The narrative delves into the brutality of slavery, the complex relationships within the plantation community, and the struggles faced by freed slaves as they navigate a world that is uncertain and unforgiving. Atakora's writing style seamlessly weaves together dual timelines, rich character development, and intricate plot twists, creating a compelling and poignant story that explores themes of resilience, identity, and the enduring power of hope.

'Properties of Thirst' by Marianne Wiggins is a historical fiction novel set in California during World War II, focusing on the creation of the Manzanar internment camp. The story follows the wealthy Rhodes family and their experiences before, during, and after the arrival of Japanese Americans at the camp. The narrative also delves into the impact of the camp on both the internees and the local residents, particularly in relation to the Department of Water and Power's redirection of water away from Owens Valley. The book weaves together multiple storylines, including a burgeoning love story between Sunny, a talented chef, and Schiff, a civilian attorney tasked with overseeing the camp's establishment.

The novel is characterized by its rich and detailed storytelling, exploring themes of sacrifice, prejudice, and the complexities of human relationships. Through a nonlinear narrative structure, the author Marianne Wiggins presents a multi-layered tale that delves into the lives of diverse characters grappling with personal struggles and societal challenges against the backdrop of a tumultuous historical period.

'The Oregon Trail: A New American Journey' by Rinker Buck follows the modern-day expedition of two brothers as they traverse the historic Oregon Trail in a covered wagon pulled by mules. Through a blend of personal anecdotes, historical insights, and family dynamics, the book captures the challenges and adventures faced by the brothers on their journey. Buck weaves together narratives from the past and present, offering a mix of humor, introspection, and exploration of the American West.