Title: These Happy Golden Years
Author: Laura Ingalls Wilder
First published January 1, 1943
289 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9780060264802 (ISBN10: 0060264802)
Rating: 4.2
Overview
At age fifteen, Laura ventures out on her own to teach school in a small claim shanty miles away from her family. Though she misses home dearly, she persists in her teaching to help her sister Mary’s education at the college for the blind.
During breaks, Laura indulges in singing lessons, sleigh rides, and spending time with Almanzo Wilder, with whom she develops a close bond. As their friendship blossoms into romance, Laura faces new challenges and adventures in the heartwarming conclusion to the Little House series.
Aligned with the Common Core State Standards in English Language Arts.
About the Author
As a child, Ingalls experienced life as a pioneer and later wrote a collection of historical fiction books for young readers based on her childhood experiences. In addition to her literary works, she also maintained a diary and wrote a newspaper column as an adult.
Her diary chronicled her journey from South Dakota to Missouri, and has since been published as a book.
Editoral Review
Laura Ingalls Wilder’s These Happy Golden Years is a classic work of children’s literature, originally published in 1943. As the ninth and final installment in the Little House on the Prairie series, this book follows the young protagonist, Laura, as she navigates the trials and tribulations of adolescence in the late 19th century.
Wilder’s writing style is simple and straightforward, with a focus on describing the natural world and daily life in rural America during this time period. However, her prose is infused with a sense of nostalgia and warmth, making it easy for readers of all ages to empathize with Laura and her family.
At its heart, These Happy Golden Years is a coming-of-age tale, exploring themes of love, loss, and the transition from childhood to adulthood. As Laura matures, she grapples with her feelings for Almanzo Wilder, a handsome young man who teaches her to drive a buggy and eventually becomes her husband.
Along the way, she learns valuable lessons about the importance of hard work, self-reliance, and the meaning of true love. One of the strengths of Wilder’s writing is her attention to historical detail, which helps transport readers back in time to the rugged and unforgiving world of pioneer America.
She vividly describes the clothing, food, and customs of this era, bringing the story to life in a way that is both educational and engaging. However, one potential weakness of the book is its lack of diversity.
While Wilder’s portrayal of life on the prairie is undoubtedly accurate, her characters are overwhelmingly white and middle-class. This may make it difficult for modern readers to fully relate to the story, particularly those who come from more diverse backgrounds.
Despite this limitation, These Happy Golden Years remains a beloved classic in the children’s literature canon. Wilder’s writing is heartwarming and sincere, capturing the spirit of a bygone era with authenticity and charm.
Fans of historical fiction or coming-of-age stories are sure to find this book a delight, and children of all ages will appreciate its timeless themes of family, love, and perseverance. In conclusion, These Happy Golden Years is a beautifully written and touching story that deserves its place among the great works of children’s literature.
While its lack of diversity may be a drawback for some readers, its timeless themes and heartwarming tone make it a must-read for anyone who enjoys tales of adventure, romance, and the joys of growing up. Score: 8/10
