Julia’s Hope

[image error]

Julia’s Hope

by Leisha Kelly

Edition: paperback, 2005

Synopsis: Like countless others in 1931, Samuel Wortham lost his job. And he lost his wife’s inheritance, their home, and much of his self-respect. Samuel, his wife, Julia, and their two young children hitchhike from Pennsylvania to Illinois in hope of work. Caught on the road by a sudden storm, the Worthams take shelter in an abandoned farmhouse out of desperation.

Feeling oddly at home, Julia insists on finding the owner of the property, despite Samuel’s objections, and asks for permission to stay. The owner is Emma Graham, a woman in her eighties who longs for home but can no longer live by herself. Emma and the Worthams work out a plan to live there together and restore the farm. Samuel struggles with not being able to provide for his family, and Julia and the kids confront unpleasant surprises when a busybody neighbor turns against them.

Julia and Samuel have traveled across the country with their two children, looking for a place to call home. When they come across an abandoned farm, Julia hopes they may have found it. While the owner is generous and kind, but the neighbors have other ideas.

This is told in the first person, alternating between Julia and Samuel, with occasional chapters from Emma. The emotions from all the characters came through and made it easier to relate with them all. They rely on each other and their faith to face the difficult circumstances in front of them.

The plot is slow, but not unbearably so. It takes its time in developing character and atmosphere. The cast is delightful, and every person is memorable in their own way.

For readers who enjoy Depression-era stories, this is a perfect read.