This book speaks to me on a deep level. Both this book and The Friendly Persuasion, also by Jessamyn West, feel so true and real to me. I love books that let you know how the characters feel and think. I love these characters and I identify with them completely. There is no sweeping conflict, action, and resolution here; there is just the day to day sweetness of living here on earth. Warning to my young friends--these books are about people who have lived awhile. You may have to wait until you're "old enough" to enjoy them as thoroughly as I do. BTW, there are too few books about people who are not young and beautiful.