Covered wagons.
The hard trail west.
The great unknown.
When I was in 5th grade, I played a computer game
called either “Wagons West!” or “Oregon Trail!” (or a mix of both; I really
can’t remember.) That game about traveling on the Oregon Trail in a covered
wagon was so much fun, I became fascinated with covered wagons and the
historical journey west.
Knowing that about myself, it’s no wonder historical fiction
books appeal to me. Recently, I was able to read an advanced reader copy of a
book that takes place on the trail west. (Yes, it features covered wagons!)
Prairie Song by Mona Hodgson is about a journey west that will
change the lives of the folks traveling west with the Boone’s Lick Company
Wagon Train. Trail hand Caleb Reger bears secrets that keep him from settling
down or releasing his heart to be loved again. Anna Goben’s got secrets of her
own, which may jeopardize the adventure that awaits her, even as she tries to
protect those she loves. Garrett Cowlishaw leads this company with a bravery
Caroline Milburn is hesitant to admire. When trials occur on the trail before
them, will these four—and the people they’re traveling with—find the courage to
carry on? Or will they turn back, being labeled “go-backers”? Will the secrets
they hold within cause more trouble and prevent them from fully enjoying the
blessings of a fresh start?
Well written with spunk and
historical facts, Mona Hodgson’s Prairie
Song is a must-read. Without books like this one, the thrill of the old
journey west will one day be forgotten. Thankfully, authors like Mona pen
stories that are sure to inspire many generations to come with the adventures
their ancestors experienced.
There’s a great take-away for
readers in this book. Caleb feels God is being silent. At one point, Garrett
asks him, “Don’t you agree that God’s truth can prepare our hearts and bolster
our spirits?” (page 64) Not only are these words meant to encourage Caleb, but
the reader may also find in them the strength to carry on. Life is tough and harsh
at times. Wouldn’t it be nice to have God’s truth prepare your heart for those
difficult moments? I know I’m relieved when His Word bolsters my spirit! It
might not change the hard circumstance, but God’s companionship will help you
through it.
Prairie Song by Mona Hodgson comes to a bookstore near you on
August 6, 2013. Be sure to mark your calendars, folks. Especially if you like a
little old-fashioned adventure!
Mona Hodgson would love to hear
what you think of her books. You may find her at any of these locations:
Thank you to WaterBrook Multnomah
for my copy of Prairie Song to
review.
2 comments:
I played Oregon Trail growing up, too!
I love historical fiction...especially fiction set in the 1920s or World War II...and Russian history. I don't know what it is about it, but Russian history fascinates me.
Anyway, this sounds like a book I need to check out!
Wasn't Oregon Trail a cool game? I wish there was a modern version of it compatible with Windows 7.
Russian history... must say I wasn't expecting that one! Very interesting choice. I'm currently researching Chechnya for a future WIP. I'm thinking some Russian history might come into play here, too, since they invaded Chechnya.
I hope you get a chance to read Prairie Song. Be ready to buy more than one book, though. This is the first in a series. I'm not sure when the next book in the series comes out. Maybe I should find out...
Thanks so much for stopping by, Melissa. I love visitors!
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