Fun read. The author of the letters has a good sense of humor. I enjoy reading well-written first hand accounts to get a glimpse into the past. I especially recommend this collection if you enjoyed reading the Little House books.

Great book that depicts life over century ago. Sometimes the language is a little odd. Not surprising for being 100+ years ago, and mostly I could figure it all out. Except for the second paragraph of the first letter. I may never decipher that one.

“if you only knew how far short I fall of my own hopes you would know I could never boast. Why, it keeps me busy making over mistakes just like someone using old clothes. I get myself all ready to enjoy a success and then find I have to fit a failure. But one consolation is that I generally have plenty of material to cut generously, and many of my failures have proved to be real blessings.”

4.5

I'd actually give it 3.5 if I could. It was more enjoyable as it went along. By the end, I really wanted to meet Elinore. She seems like a vivacious go-getter.

This was a darling little read. I loved Elinore's gumption, tenacity, and positivity.

I’m a sucker for epistolary, homesteading books. A fan of the Laura Ingalls Wilder books and this is a true account of similar, older lifestyle of the West. I find them interesting. The positivity of this woman is beyond me though. She truly was made for homesteading.