I felt like i was there in 1852. The book is a first hand account of the woman named Esther Hanna. All the added photos and paintings from that time really brought to life what was being mentioned in the diary unbelievably well. The other diaries from adults and teenagers and even 10 and 11 year olds are mixed in with Esther's and many are written on the same dates as hers. It was very emotional at times for me, i am just like that. It was very fun and happy with many struggles and then joyous at times. Some of the situations that the people were in seemed impossible to get out of. What a true life documentary. Not made up fiction. That isn't even needed here. That woman went through all of this in real life and she wrote every single day of her journey. It should become a movie or something on the screen. When I was done reading I had some tears of happiness. I don't know why. Maybe I felt her feelings. Amazing writing skills for all involved.
BOOKS A MILLIONSubmitted 6 days ago
By Julie
From Elmhurst IL
Verified Reviewer
I heard a lot about this new release so I was really expecting something different. When I started reading, I was automatically pulled into the story mentally. The words from the diaries brought the wagon train and the Western frontier alive I give it my best book recommendation. The historical story was ingenious putting many diaries together of same journey to compliment each other for a full experience. Cant get any more real than this. Loved it Loved the refreshing new style of this author. Julie
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend to a friend