I am reading the Little House on the Prairie series again. Wilder has a gift for simple and poignant writing that grasps the heart of today’s woman while focusing on the historical richness of her past. I love hearing her mother and father’s pioneering values and love settle into Laura, making her one of America’s all-time strongest and most beautiful women. It’s a rare gift for a writer to teach, entertain, and love her world the way Wilder does, especially when that world is a 0 degree icebox as it is many times during her adventures. Reading these books in the winter helps me to literally chill out in regards to complaining about Michigan winters. She would be a different woman, granted, had she lived today, buta tough pioneer woman she was, and we can learn from her family’s timeless tales of good sense, respect, positive attitudes, and fun-loving spirits despite not knowing what tomorrow may bring. I welcome any additional readings that bring such fortitude to the table. Especially in winter.
