Title: The Daughter’s Walk
Author: Jane Kirkpatrick
First published January 1, 2011
388 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9781400074297 (ISBN10: 1400074290)
Rating: 3.8
Overview
In Jane Kirkpatrick’s The Daughter’s Walk, readers are taken on a journey that spans over 7,000 miles and more than two decades. Helga Estby and her daughter, Clara, set out on a daring wager to save their family farm.
But what happens when Clara decides to continue walking alone, leaving behind everything she’s ever known? Kirkpatrick weaves together fact and fiction to explore Clara’s continued journey, delving into the motivations that led her to take such a risk in an era when women faced significant obstacles.
As readers follow Clara’s path, they are invited to consider their own journeys and the power of forgiveness in the face of family separation. Kirkpatrick’s masterful storytelling will leave readers captivated until the very end.
About the Author
In Kirkpatrick’s tale, we witness a woman’s journey from experiencing deep personal sorrow to discovering the true significance of being part of a community.
Editoral Review
The Daughter’s Walk by Jane Kirkpatrick is a historical fiction novel that was first published on January 1, 2011. The book tells the story of Clara Estby, a young woman who, along with her mother, undertakes a cross-country walk in 1896 in order to win a wager that will save their family from destitution.
Jane Kirkpatrick is an award-winning author who has written numerous historical fiction novels set in the American West. Her writing style is known for being reflective, emotional, and rich in historical detail.
The Daughter’s Walk is no exception, as Kirkpatrick masterfully captures the spirit of the time period and provides a nuanced portrayal of her characters. The plot of the novel revolves around Clara Estby and her mother Helga, who embark on a walk from Spokane, Washington to New York City in order to win a wager that will provide the money needed to save their family from financial ruin.
Along the way, the pair encounters various challenges and obstacles, from illness and betrayal to societal prejudice and misogyny. One of the strengths of The Daughter’s Walk is the depth of character development that Kirkpatrick provides.
Clara and Helga are complex, multifaceted characters who evolve and grow throughout the course of the novel. Additionally, Kirkpatrick’s writing style is engaging and descriptive, providing a richly detailed picture of both the physical and emotional landscapes of the time period.
Another notable aspect of the book is the attention paid to historical accuracy and cultural significance. Kirkpatrick provides a compelling portrayal of the societal attitudes and values of the time, highlighting the struggles faced by women and other marginalized groups.
This makes the book not only an enjoyable read, but also a valuable historical and cultural document. Despite these strengths, The Daughter’s Walk does have some limitations.
Some readers may find the pacing to be slow at times, and the overall plot arc somewhat predictable. However, these are minor criticisms in the grand scheme of things.
Overall, The Daughter’s Walk is a great read for fans of historical fiction who enjoy well-crafted characters and evocative storytelling. It provides a valuable glimpse into a bygone era, while also highlighting the continuing struggles of marginalized groups in our current world.
I would highly recommend this book to readers of all ages and backgrounds. Rating: 4 out of 5 stars.
