If you are young and left with your own devises to survive, and provide for yourself and your remaining family, do you have the strength to rise to the occasion in a harsh world? This is the basis of the story that unfolds. The people you meet along the way engulf you from the moment you meet them. Kerry Chaput has a way of taking you on a journey, wrapping you up into the young characters as if you were right there with them experiencing the struggles, hardships and tragedies. You don't want to step away from reading for fear of missing something. Her descriptions of the people and towns during the depression and dust bowl are heart breaking. People being pushed to their limits. Yet, there is this underlying desperation and hunger for hope of finding what you are looking for, of something better out there. I would be remiss if I didn't mention Eleanor Roosevelt. She gave such hope to people by listening and using her wise words and actions to fight for the common people. She gave the main character Magnolia the belief she needed to make it through life with the strength and comradery of other women. To rise up and make it better for yourself and other people. A book you won't be able to put down if you like historical fiction.

3.5 stars
This book packs a punch. Heart-rending historical fiction, set in the time of the Great Depression. The author did a great job of depicting what life was like during this troubled time in our country.
Y.A. is the intended audience, but there are some very adult themes that might need adult guidance.

“In this life, you’ll meet people who will heal you. All the ugly this world has put in your heart will turn beautiful if you give yourself a chance.”
How true this is but most times it's so hard to trust anyone even in today's times. People will either break you or make you. It's who you learn to trust that makes it all the worthwhile.loved this novel so very much!
I've felt like I've gotten to know the real Eleanor Roosevelt who's heart is in the right place. I wish I could have met her in real life but through this heartfelt novel I was able to.
Magnolia is a true heroine! She fought for what she believed in and showed people in what she could do if determined. I found myself rooting for her all the way through this fast paced novel.
The boys were what my heart hurt most for. Johnny and Oscar. Their conditions made me sad. It's hard to believe that some families still live like this.
My favorite thing about this book was that it was told from Magnolia's point of view. I felt that I could connect to her most this way.
Hope is the theme of this book. After all, if we don't have that then what do we have?
This is a can't put down book and Magnolia will make you want to weep at times in the way they were treated
I loved this story so much for what it was. I didn't want it to end.
Magnolia and her brothers will leave you thinking about them long after this story is finished.
One more quote
“Here’s the thing about women. The world can try to shove us into the dark and break our bones and steal our pride. But they can’t touch our spirit. "That is something we all have. "
My heart was full and satisfied.
5 stars for a job well done and for an awesome story!
My thanks to Netgalley for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.