This classic investigates the American frontier in the early 20th century. The protagonist Alexandra inherits a family farm in her youth. Even though the frontier seems rough and not a place for success, she decides to stick with it. Sixteen years later, she has grown a life of material riches, yet her personal life is somewhat insulated. She is lonely amidst all the financial prosperity.
The world around her is divided by ethnic groups of new immigrants to America from European countries. The denominational breakdown of Christianity – the Norwegian church, the French church, the Bohemian church, and so on – represents the social diversity on this frontier. She tries to make peace with her surroundings and find happiness for her friends, but tragedy, scandal, and promise await.
Willa Cather’s characters are clearly presented in this frontier story. This book, the first of a trilogy, is the most famous of her award-winning career. Thus, it does not need me to trumpet or criticize it. Each character has their peculiar place on the American farmland, yet each character resonates deeply as deeply human. If you want a novel that brings to light the humanity of American settlers in the early twentieth century, this book can be a great gateway to a rich midwestern culture lying beneath the surface.
O Pioneers!
By Willa Cather
Copyright (c) 1913, 2022
Warbler Classics
ISBN13 9781957240770
Page Count: 118
Genre: Fiction
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