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Where Lilacs Still Bloom
One woman, an impossible dream, and the faith it took to see it through.
German immigrant and farm wife Hulda Klager possesses only an eighth-grade education—and a burning desire to create something beautiful. What begins as a hobby to create an easy-peeling apple for her pies becomes Hulda’s driving purpose: a time-consuming interest in plant hybridization that puts her at odds with family and community, as she challenges the early twentieth-century expectations for a simple housewife.
Through the years, seasonal floods continually threaten to erase her Woodland, Washington garden and a series of family tragedies cause even Hulda to question her focus. In a time of practicality, can one person’s simple gifts of beauty make a difference?
Based on the life of Hulda Klager, Where Lilacs Still Bloom is a story of triumph over an impossible dream and the power of a generous heart.
“Beauty matters… it does. God gave us flowers for a reason. Flowers remind us to put away fear, to stop our rushing and running and worrying about this and that, and for a moment, have a piece of paradise right here on earth.”
German immigrant and farm wife Hulda Klager possesses only an eighth-grade education—and a burning desire to create something beautiful. What begins as a hobby to create an easy-peeling apple for her pies becomes Hulda’s driving purpose: a time-consuming interest in plant hybridization that puts her at odds with family and community, as she challenges the early twentieth-century expectations for a simple housewife.
Through the years, seasonal floods continually threaten to erase her Woodland, Washington garden and a series of family tragedies cause even Hulda to question her focus. In a time of practicality, can one person’s simple gifts of beauty make a difference?
Based on the life of Hulda Klager, Where Lilacs Still Bloom is a story of triumph over an impossible dream and the power of a generous heart.
“Beauty matters… it does. God gave us flowers for a reason. Flowers remind us to put away fear, to stop our rushing and running and worrying about this and that, and for a moment, have a piece of paradise right here on earth.”
371 pages, Paperback
First published April 17, 2012
122 people are currently reading
942 people want to read
About the author
Jane Kirkpatrick
56 books1,051 followersKirkpatrick brings us a story of one woman's restoration from personal grief to the meaning of community."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 238 reviews
January 2, 2013
I am a huge Kirkpatrick fan. Her historical research is meticulous, her characters dynamic, her prose is beautifully written. I never want to stop reading and I never want her books to end!
Based on the life of Hulda Klager, a woman who loves her gardens, a gardener who is challenged by possibilities through hybridization of lilacs and other plants, Where Lilacs Still Bloom is a "story of triumph over seemingly insurmountable odds and the power of a generous heart."
Hulda faces the physical and emotional storms of life with honesty and strength, even as she questions herself and her dreams when floods wash away her plantings, when family losses upset her hopes. But Hulda says, "Beauty matters . . . . God gave us flowers for a reason. Flowers remind us to put away fear, to stop our rushing and running and worrying about this and that, and for a moment, have a piece of paradise right here on earth."
Hulda Klager goes about recreating her Eden all around her, as well as investing in the lives of young women and young men who need encouragement and mentoring.
Hulda Klager challenges the views of agriculture and society by stepping out of the mold of the usual housewife. She is a heroine, a model for her age and ours.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book!
Based on the life of Hulda Klager, a woman who loves her gardens, a gardener who is challenged by possibilities through hybridization of lilacs and other plants, Where Lilacs Still Bloom is a "story of triumph over seemingly insurmountable odds and the power of a generous heart."
Hulda faces the physical and emotional storms of life with honesty and strength, even as she questions herself and her dreams when floods wash away her plantings, when family losses upset her hopes. But Hulda says, "Beauty matters . . . . God gave us flowers for a reason. Flowers remind us to put away fear, to stop our rushing and running and worrying about this and that, and for a moment, have a piece of paradise right here on earth."
Hulda Klager goes about recreating her Eden all around her, as well as investing in the lives of young women and young men who need encouragement and mentoring.
Hulda Klager challenges the views of agriculture and society by stepping out of the mold of the usual housewife. She is a heroine, a model for her age and ours.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book!
June 2, 2014
This book made me want to go on a field trip to Woodland, Wa. Hulda was an inspiring, real-life woman who faced many trials and often wondered if what she was doing in her garden was detracting from her important work as a wife and mother. Although a fictionalized account (only Hulda could have revealed her real feelings) this novel seemed well-researched and was very believable.
September 1, 2012
REVIEW OF JANE KIRKPATRICK’S WHERE LILACS STILL BLOOM
The story of how Jane Kirkpatrick came to write of where lilacs bloom is as delightful as her depiction of a life well and beautifully lived. She knew of Hulda Klager but a passionate devotee gradually tweaked Kirkpatrick’s interest until her great research skills and imagination were fully engaged. The result is a charming and insightful characterization of a woman obsessed with ideas of hybridization.
The story develops from Hulda’s success in producing a tastier, easier-to-peel pie-apple to her world renown lilacs with tales of her father’s undoubting support to her husband’s eventual conversion and participation. Others were vocal about her “sin” in altering God’s designs; she worried that she wasn’t a good enough wife or mother, sacrificing her family to her work. The strain on Hulda brought her to a dark place when doubt and multiple losses threw her into a year-long battle with depression. Kirkpatrick probes the depth of Hulda’s personality with a finely tuned fork, showing the reader her quirks and strengths.
Plants were not the only things to be nurtured in Hulga's realm. She opened her doors to young girls in need of a home and education, something Hulga felt she lacked with her grammar school training. The girls and the young boys she hired to work in her gardens benefitted from her influence as did many others she met along her path.
WHERE LILACS STILL BLOOM falls well within Jane Kirkpatrick’s style: based on a real, well researched historical character, interpreted masterfully, with a message to deliver and an educational edge.
The story of how Jane Kirkpatrick came to write of where lilacs bloom is as delightful as her depiction of a life well and beautifully lived. She knew of Hulda Klager but a passionate devotee gradually tweaked Kirkpatrick’s interest until her great research skills and imagination were fully engaged. The result is a charming and insightful characterization of a woman obsessed with ideas of hybridization.
The story develops from Hulda’s success in producing a tastier, easier-to-peel pie-apple to her world renown lilacs with tales of her father’s undoubting support to her husband’s eventual conversion and participation. Others were vocal about her “sin” in altering God’s designs; she worried that she wasn’t a good enough wife or mother, sacrificing her family to her work. The strain on Hulda brought her to a dark place when doubt and multiple losses threw her into a year-long battle with depression. Kirkpatrick probes the depth of Hulda’s personality with a finely tuned fork, showing the reader her quirks and strengths.
Plants were not the only things to be nurtured in Hulga's realm. She opened her doors to young girls in need of a home and education, something Hulga felt she lacked with her grammar school training. The girls and the young boys she hired to work in her gardens benefitted from her influence as did many others she met along her path.
WHERE LILACS STILL BLOOM falls well within Jane Kirkpatrick’s style: based on a real, well researched historical character, interpreted masterfully, with a message to deliver and an educational edge.
April 15, 2020
I am not sure how I happened upon this book, but after reading the long and heavy Agony and the Ecstasy, I thought it would be a nice change of pace. Besides, April is the month associated with lilacs, which happen to be my favorite flower.
When I began to read this fictionalized account of Hulda Klager, a German-American farm wife, I thought the writing rather simple. It bounced around a lot, too, with a lot of disparate characters. But I hung in there and about a third of the way through, was won over.
Ms. Klager had only an 8th grade education, but she had great intelligence and an obvious gift for horticulture. She was fortunate to have had a Father who encouraged her gift in her early life, and later a husband who also supported her work. This was the early 1900s, so a woman would have been hard pressed for success apart from such support.
At first Hulda worked on creating an apple cultivar that met her specifications. Having success with that, she moved on to lilacs, which became her life calling. At the end of her life she ended up with 250+ new varieties, which can today be viewed by the public at the her old home, now Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens historical site in Woodland, Washington.
We learn, not only of lilacs, but of the increasing role of women in the world of horticulture during the first decades of the 1900s. The juggling of work and family life, sorrow and success, setbacks and victories are familiar challenges that women from any age must face.
Hulda was very "real," with insecurities, guilt about the financial strain her work entailed, and the nagging disapproval of some in her community who felt it sacrilege to improve upon God's creation.
I came to see the simple way in which this book was written was a reflection of the simple ways of Hulda. Simple but not simplistic; indeed she had an amazing grasp on a difficult subject, and that without outside tutelage.
I'd love to visit her gardens someday.
When I began to read this fictionalized account of Hulda Klager, a German-American farm wife, I thought the writing rather simple. It bounced around a lot, too, with a lot of disparate characters. But I hung in there and about a third of the way through, was won over.
Ms. Klager had only an 8th grade education, but she had great intelligence and an obvious gift for horticulture. She was fortunate to have had a Father who encouraged her gift in her early life, and later a husband who also supported her work. This was the early 1900s, so a woman would have been hard pressed for success apart from such support.
At first Hulda worked on creating an apple cultivar that met her specifications. Having success with that, she moved on to lilacs, which became her life calling. At the end of her life she ended up with 250+ new varieties, which can today be viewed by the public at the her old home, now Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens historical site in Woodland, Washington.
We learn, not only of lilacs, but of the increasing role of women in the world of horticulture during the first decades of the 1900s. The juggling of work and family life, sorrow and success, setbacks and victories are familiar challenges that women from any age must face.
Hulda was very "real," with insecurities, guilt about the financial strain her work entailed, and the nagging disapproval of some in her community who felt it sacrilege to improve upon God's creation.
I came to see the simple way in which this book was written was a reflection of the simple ways of Hulda. Simple but not simplistic; indeed she had an amazing grasp on a difficult subject, and that without outside tutelage.
I'd love to visit her gardens someday.
March 25, 2012
Saturday, March 24, 2012
Where Lilacs Still Bloom by Jane Kirkpatrick, c2012
CAN'T YOU JUST SMELL THEM!!!
Lilac Days
April 21 - May 13, 2012;
Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens, 115 South Pekin Road, Woodland, WA 98674
Lilac Photo from Jane Kirkpatrick's Story Sparks, March, 2012
First, before I begin my review, you absolutely must go to Jane Kirkpatrick's Story Sparks, March, 2012, issue and read "Lilac Love" for yourself! Here is a hint of content, for you won't want to miss this event if you are in the area of the Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens:
"The official opening, April 21, I'm hoping is bright and sunny with lilacs blooming everywhere and there's no limit to the number who can treat themselves to the garden's delight that day or for the next three weeks (through Mother's Day). Everyone is welcome and I hope people will consider taking home a lilac start to plant in their back yards."
As you can tell, I am enraptured by Jane Kirkpatrick's Where Lilacs Still Bloom.
Because! They still do.
Jane Kirkpatrick has written a vivid picture of the life of Hulda Klager, a German immigrant and farm wife whose schooling ended after eighth grade, but... her education certainly didn't. Because of Hulda Klager, you might enjoy crisper, bigger apples, begun by her grafting; lighter and darker shades of daffodils, and the dynamic colors of lilacs, subtle, yet blending with extended blooms.
Hulda Klager's life will encourage you to persist against all odds to achieve your dream. You say you left them far behind? Don't! Keep your dream alive. You will reach your vision if you will continue and not give up. Life is daily.
I love Jane Kirkpatrick's novels! She begins with a Cast of Characters which I find very helpful as I grow to know each one by her descriptions of their abilities and outlook. It helps me connect them within their families and those coming alongside.
"Hulda Klager, the woman of my story, withstood floods, horses ruining her plants, and she threw out hundreds of lilacs that failed to meet her exacting standards. But she persisted until she'd developed over 250 individual varieties of lilacs many of which she gave away." --Jane Kirkpatrick
The many setbacks in Hulda's life did not deter her. The sadness she endured, as well as her family, as they clung to each other in rebuilding. Hulda's children had a firm foundation because of the strength of the love between Hulda and their father. He was a loving husband who complemented her temperament. The losses in their family line were catastrophic and unyielding; tragic to any generation.
http://www.scribd.com/doc/80832252/Wh...
There are 44 chapters. Here is a "smidgen" from Amazon.com to whet your appetite for this historical fiction novel:
Where Lilacs Still Bloom can be preordered at Jane Kirkpatrick's website www.jkbooks.com and other online and retail stores near you and at the publisher website www.randomhouse.com
Thank you, WaterBrook Multnomah blogging for Books, for this advance reading copy of Jane Kirkpatrick's novel, Where Lilacs Still Bloom, in exchange for my honest review.
Where Lilacs Still Bloom by Jane Kirkpatrick, c2012
CAN'T YOU JUST SMELL THEM!!!
Lilac Days
April 21 - May 13, 2012;
Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens, 115 South Pekin Road, Woodland, WA 98674
Lilac Photo from Jane Kirkpatrick's Story Sparks, March, 2012
First, before I begin my review, you absolutely must go to Jane Kirkpatrick's Story Sparks, March, 2012, issue and read "Lilac Love" for yourself! Here is a hint of content, for you won't want to miss this event if you are in the area of the Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens:
"The official opening, April 21, I'm hoping is bright and sunny with lilacs blooming everywhere and there's no limit to the number who can treat themselves to the garden's delight that day or for the next three weeks (through Mother's Day). Everyone is welcome and I hope people will consider taking home a lilac start to plant in their back yards."
As you can tell, I am enraptured by Jane Kirkpatrick's Where Lilacs Still Bloom.
Because! They still do.
Jane Kirkpatrick has written a vivid picture of the life of Hulda Klager, a German immigrant and farm wife whose schooling ended after eighth grade, but... her education certainly didn't. Because of Hulda Klager, you might enjoy crisper, bigger apples, begun by her grafting; lighter and darker shades of daffodils, and the dynamic colors of lilacs, subtle, yet blending with extended blooms.
Hulda Klager's life will encourage you to persist against all odds to achieve your dream. You say you left them far behind? Don't! Keep your dream alive. You will reach your vision if you will continue and not give up. Life is daily.
I love Jane Kirkpatrick's novels! She begins with a Cast of Characters which I find very helpful as I grow to know each one by her descriptions of their abilities and outlook. It helps me connect them within their families and those coming alongside.
"Hulda Klager, the woman of my story, withstood floods, horses ruining her plants, and she threw out hundreds of lilacs that failed to meet her exacting standards. But she persisted until she'd developed over 250 individual varieties of lilacs many of which she gave away." --Jane Kirkpatrick
The many setbacks in Hulda's life did not deter her. The sadness she endured, as well as her family, as they clung to each other in rebuilding. Hulda's children had a firm foundation because of the strength of the love between Hulda and their father. He was a loving husband who complemented her temperament. The losses in their family line were catastrophic and unyielding; tragic to any generation.
http://www.scribd.com/doc/80832252/Wh...
There are 44 chapters. Here is a "smidgen" from Amazon.com to whet your appetite for this historical fiction novel:
Where Lilacs Still Bloom can be preordered at Jane Kirkpatrick's website www.jkbooks.com and other online and retail stores near you and at the publisher website www.randomhouse.com
Thank you, WaterBrook Multnomah blogging for Books, for this advance reading copy of Jane Kirkpatrick's novel, Where Lilacs Still Bloom, in exchange for my honest review.
October 27, 2015
I thoroughly enjoyed this book based on the life of Hulda Klager who was a German immigrant and farm wife who lived between 1864 and 1960. She had only an eighth grade education, but became a pioneer in cross-breeding and hybridization. With the encouragement of her father, she began by creating a crisp, easy peeling apple to make better pies. But her passion was lilacs. By the time she died at the age of 97, she had developed over 250 varieties of lilacs from cross-breeding three surviving Lemoine plants she had ordered from France when she 1st started out. What patience and obsessive care she had for her plants and garden. She had the "extraordinary ability not only to see the details within individual plants so that she could breed for hardiness and resistance to disease in addition to color and size and scent".
Hulda, her husband Frank, and their four children eventually settled in Woodland, Washington in the bottom land between the Columbia and Lewis rivers. Many times her gardens were wiped out by floods. They would build rafts, uproot the plants and tie the rafts to trees so she would have starts to replant her gardens. One time after a year long bout with depression, her sister gave her a book written by Luther Burbank, a well-known botanist, which helped her regain her zest for life and her lilacs. Her dream was to create a cream white lilac with 12 petals. And in the end she succeeded.
Her father had warned her that some people would consider it a sin to alter God's designs and that her husband Frank wouldn't appreciate an interest that would take her away from family and him. But he was proved wrong about Frank, as Hulda's husband embraced her passion and became an excellent helpmate for her. Between the seasonal floods and several family tragedies, Hulda began to question her focus on her life's work; but her strong desire to create beautiful flowers always brought her back on course.
Hulda was also a generous person as she refused to sell her starts but gave them away to others. She also opened her house to young girls who needed a place to stay while they went to school nearby. She taught them what she knew and they became extended "family". After the big flood of 1948 Hulda decided not replant her garden when she lost all her plants, but her generosity over the years came back in the form of gifts of starts from people (many she didn't even know) who gave starts back to her. She was forced to resurrect her garden with the help of family. An annual event was created in Woodland that became known as Lilac Days and Hulda became known as the Lilac Lady of Woodland.
After reading this book I went online and researched Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens and found that a group of dedicated women from the Woodland Garden Club worked tirelessly to reclaim the Klager property and help establish the Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens. It is now a National Historic Site and is open to the public to view. The best time to visit is between April and Mother's Day when the lilacs are at their best. I'm ready for a field trip to Woodland, Washington! A well-researched gentle interesting read.
Hulda, her husband Frank, and their four children eventually settled in Woodland, Washington in the bottom land between the Columbia and Lewis rivers. Many times her gardens were wiped out by floods. They would build rafts, uproot the plants and tie the rafts to trees so she would have starts to replant her gardens. One time after a year long bout with depression, her sister gave her a book written by Luther Burbank, a well-known botanist, which helped her regain her zest for life and her lilacs. Her dream was to create a cream white lilac with 12 petals. And in the end she succeeded.
Her father had warned her that some people would consider it a sin to alter God's designs and that her husband Frank wouldn't appreciate an interest that would take her away from family and him. But he was proved wrong about Frank, as Hulda's husband embraced her passion and became an excellent helpmate for her. Between the seasonal floods and several family tragedies, Hulda began to question her focus on her life's work; but her strong desire to create beautiful flowers always brought her back on course.
Hulda was also a generous person as she refused to sell her starts but gave them away to others. She also opened her house to young girls who needed a place to stay while they went to school nearby. She taught them what she knew and they became extended "family". After the big flood of 1948 Hulda decided not replant her garden when she lost all her plants, but her generosity over the years came back in the form of gifts of starts from people (many she didn't even know) who gave starts back to her. She was forced to resurrect her garden with the help of family. An annual event was created in Woodland that became known as Lilac Days and Hulda became known as the Lilac Lady of Woodland.
After reading this book I went online and researched Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens and found that a group of dedicated women from the Woodland Garden Club worked tirelessly to reclaim the Klager property and help establish the Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens. It is now a National Historic Site and is open to the public to view. The best time to visit is between April and Mother's Day when the lilacs are at their best. I'm ready for a field trip to Woodland, Washington! A well-researched gentle interesting read.
August 11, 2013
Ms. Kirkpatrick is one of my favorite historical fiction authors! I love the way she takes true stories and solid historical facts then seamlessly weaves in fictional details. This is based on the true story of Hulda Klager a German immigrant with only an 8th grade education. What she lacked in years of schooling she made up for in her God given genius in horticulture.
Her love of plants came from her father. Her first “mission” was to develop a larger apple that tasted great and peeled with ease. All because she wanted to be able to make apple pies faster! After many years she accomplished her goal.
Her next passion was to produce a specific new color of lilac that also had more petals that the standard lilac. Once that was accomplished she continued to work with her favorite flower until she had created 100’s of other varieties.
She achieved this while caring for and raising a family. Her massive flower garden began to attract attention far and wide to the point they had 1000’s of visitors each year. She truly earned her name, the “Lilac Lady”.
While Hulda’s story itself was fascinating I found some very important lessons to be learned from her life. One was her amazing perseverance. Her beloved plants were stomped by animals and a different times flooded by the nearby river. Each time she dealt with the damage and start again. The last time a flood completely destroyed her garden to the point all that was left was some large trees. At the age of 83 she started over. Now that is faith and determination at its greatest!
She also faced opposition from her pastor and others in pursuing her dream. They felt she was “tampering” with God’s creation. Guilt plagued her that she was spending too much time on her flowers and neglecting her family. Each time she faced opposition within or without, she turned to God for her answers.
Her strong faith brought her through many painful losses of those she loved. Again she turned to the Lord for her strength and guidance.
Hulda never wanted to “get rich” and was even resistant to selling her hybrids to companies and individuals. She just wanted to share the flowers she loved so much. Not once even when fame came her way did she grow prideful in her success. She remained humbled and very much in awe at the attention she drew.
I believe she was able to continue on and leave such an amazing legacy because her focus was always on her Lord and the task she believed He had given her.
Hulda died in 1960 at the age of 96. Today you can still visit her gardens that have been restored and maintained. Many of the lilacs she planted are still there. After reading the book I want to purchase a Hulda Klager lilac! An interesting and entertaining book that will inspire you in your faith!
Be sure to go to http://www.jkbooks.com/ and check out more of Jane Kirkpatrick’s wonderful books!
I received this book free from Waterbrook Press. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own
Her love of plants came from her father. Her first “mission” was to develop a larger apple that tasted great and peeled with ease. All because she wanted to be able to make apple pies faster! After many years she accomplished her goal.
Her next passion was to produce a specific new color of lilac that also had more petals that the standard lilac. Once that was accomplished she continued to work with her favorite flower until she had created 100’s of other varieties.
She achieved this while caring for and raising a family. Her massive flower garden began to attract attention far and wide to the point they had 1000’s of visitors each year. She truly earned her name, the “Lilac Lady”.
While Hulda’s story itself was fascinating I found some very important lessons to be learned from her life. One was her amazing perseverance. Her beloved plants were stomped by animals and a different times flooded by the nearby river. Each time she dealt with the damage and start again. The last time a flood completely destroyed her garden to the point all that was left was some large trees. At the age of 83 she started over. Now that is faith and determination at its greatest!
She also faced opposition from her pastor and others in pursuing her dream. They felt she was “tampering” with God’s creation. Guilt plagued her that she was spending too much time on her flowers and neglecting her family. Each time she faced opposition within or without, she turned to God for her answers.
Her strong faith brought her through many painful losses of those she loved. Again she turned to the Lord for her strength and guidance.
Hulda never wanted to “get rich” and was even resistant to selling her hybrids to companies and individuals. She just wanted to share the flowers she loved so much. Not once even when fame came her way did she grow prideful in her success. She remained humbled and very much in awe at the attention she drew.
I believe she was able to continue on and leave such an amazing legacy because her focus was always on her Lord and the task she believed He had given her.
Hulda died in 1960 at the age of 96. Today you can still visit her gardens that have been restored and maintained. Many of the lilacs she planted are still there. After reading the book I want to purchase a Hulda Klager lilac! An interesting and entertaining book that will inspire you in your faith!
Be sure to go to http://www.jkbooks.com/ and check out more of Jane Kirkpatrick’s wonderful books!
I received this book free from Waterbrook Press. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own
May 7, 2012
Where Lilacs Still Bloom review:
3 stars. Cover: 4 stars.
Review: "Where Lilacs Still Bloom" is better than most books I have read from Jane Kirkpatrick. I could actually finish this book. But I just didn't "like-like" it. I've never liked fictionalized non-fiction, and most of the characters were boring. And I did not see the point of adding fake people to the story, when most of them had no impact to the outcome of the story. The best thing about this book was the cover. There were a few scenes that made me laugh, but nothing more. I didn't feel like I was "there" with them. I didn't feel as if I "knew them personally". It took me four days to read this book (Books I love only take me a few hours), and I was forcing myself to read it. I felt as if it were a punishment. Anyway, the book is basically about a German housewife whose main goal is to "create" a creamy white, twelve petal lilac. I love flowers, I do, but not enough to read a book which is focused on flowers. Most of the scenes felt rushed, the characters (Based on real people) didn't seem developed, and switching back and forth between character to character and not knowing what was going on most of the time led me to decide this book was--well, boring. Hopefully, I will never have to read another book by Mrs. Kirkpatrick again. (Sorry, all Jane Kirkpactrick fans!) I am sure she has talent, just not the kind of talent I like. God bless her and her writing!
3 stars. Cover: 4 stars.
Review: "Where Lilacs Still Bloom" is better than most books I have read from Jane Kirkpatrick. I could actually finish this book. But I just didn't "like-like" it. I've never liked fictionalized non-fiction, and most of the characters were boring. And I did not see the point of adding fake people to the story, when most of them had no impact to the outcome of the story. The best thing about this book was the cover. There were a few scenes that made me laugh, but nothing more. I didn't feel like I was "there" with them. I didn't feel as if I "knew them personally". It took me four days to read this book (Books I love only take me a few hours), and I was forcing myself to read it. I felt as if it were a punishment. Anyway, the book is basically about a German housewife whose main goal is to "create" a creamy white, twelve petal lilac. I love flowers, I do, but not enough to read a book which is focused on flowers. Most of the scenes felt rushed, the characters (Based on real people) didn't seem developed, and switching back and forth between character to character and not knowing what was going on most of the time led me to decide this book was--well, boring. Hopefully, I will never have to read another book by Mrs. Kirkpatrick again. (Sorry, all Jane Kirkpactrick fans!) I am sure she has talent, just not the kind of talent I like. God bless her and her writing!
May 18, 2021
Lilacs, all bunched together, in bundles are blissful. They are the first flower I can remember, and the first of which I took enough interest to hunt down their name, and pointed out to every captive grown up I could interest in my young charms.
When I saw this book I nearly swooned. I had been telling the girls at the Hulda Klager Gardens that someone somewhere should write a book about this place. I went year after year, and have done until 2020 and this year. It's a straight shot up I-5 from my house. And when you return to my house you can have a walk around, and you will find 8 of Hulda's beauties in my yard. I wanted to post some of my pictures in this review, but couldn't figure out the formatting and the sizing of the pics. Anyway - yes this review is about the book. . . it was a dream come true, to have it in hand and readable. If you love lilacs, gardening, settlers who settle and have a rough road, but find comfort in the earth's bounties. . .this book's for you! I wish you could smell it! I wish you could see them as you read. . . it is delightful. This is Hulda's story.
If you are ever in the Pacific Northwest, in Portland or Vancouver way, it's less than an hour north, and so worth the visit. In the meantime, if this book pops up on a shelf near you, take it home and enjoy the read.
Here's the path to Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens - see for yourself! https://www.lilacgardens.com
When I saw this book I nearly swooned. I had been telling the girls at the Hulda Klager Gardens that someone somewhere should write a book about this place. I went year after year, and have done until 2020 and this year. It's a straight shot up I-5 from my house. And when you return to my house you can have a walk around, and you will find 8 of Hulda's beauties in my yard. I wanted to post some of my pictures in this review, but couldn't figure out the formatting and the sizing of the pics. Anyway - yes this review is about the book. . . it was a dream come true, to have it in hand and readable. If you love lilacs, gardening, settlers who settle and have a rough road, but find comfort in the earth's bounties. . .this book's for you! I wish you could smell it! I wish you could see them as you read. . . it is delightful. This is Hulda's story.
If you are ever in the Pacific Northwest, in Portland or Vancouver way, it's less than an hour north, and so worth the visit. In the meantime, if this book pops up on a shelf near you, take it home and enjoy the read.
Here's the path to Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens - see for yourself! https://www.lilacgardens.com
October 24, 2011
It was fun to meet Hulda Klager in Where Lilacs Bloom by Jane Kirkpatrick. In the present days, Jane Kirkpatrick met Betty Carlson Mills, Hulda's granddaughter-in-law and went to Lilac Days in Hulda's garden. She also got several of Hulda's cuttings for her garden. This is where Jane Kirkpatrick got the idea for this book. So this is a book where some facts are known and a story is built around those facts.
The story began in 1889. We learned about the hardships and successes that Hulda and her family had to face. We learned of her generous spirit. And we learned about horticulture in the early days. Hulda even corresponded with Luther Burbank and his wife.
I felt that Hulga's life was summed up well by Hulga when receiving a Horticultural Award and her saying, "Suffering, I decided, happened and so did good things and the question of God's power was not so much in questioning why he didn't stop floods or death but in all the rest of the time him showing us how to be hospitable, generous and loving." I really enjoyed this book and will be recommending it to many. I was fortunate to get my hands on an advanced reader's copy. The book will not be coming out until April, 2012.
The story began in 1889. We learned about the hardships and successes that Hulda and her family had to face. We learned of her generous spirit. And we learned about horticulture in the early days. Hulda even corresponded with Luther Burbank and his wife.
I felt that Hulga's life was summed up well by Hulga when receiving a Horticultural Award and her saying, "Suffering, I decided, happened and so did good things and the question of God's power was not so much in questioning why he didn't stop floods or death but in all the rest of the time him showing us how to be hospitable, generous and loving." I really enjoyed this book and will be recommending it to many. I was fortunate to get my hands on an advanced reader's copy. The book will not be coming out until April, 2012.
May 30, 2016
This book is the story of Hulda. Through her love and curiosity for lilacs, she touches all those who become a part of her life. One by one, her human helpers in the garden also grow; many going on to teach Hulda's life lessons to their own young ones. Hulda thinks in much the way my mom thinks. One line struck me the most. After one more river overflow, or one more death, Hulda said, "This is what we do". She forged ahead. And this IS what women still do.
I honor this lovely book by adding lilacs to my newest painting, "The Heroine's Journey". They represent love and innocence.
I honor this lovely book by adding lilacs to my newest painting, "The Heroine's Journey". They represent love and innocence.
February 25, 2022
Just another great read from Kirkpatrick about Hulda and her life in her garden and the many lives she touched. Very interesting and a wonderful look at family and friends. Lifespan books can be a little sad and this one was no different. I would recommend if you read this book to skip reading the prologue; it was actually a little bit of a spoiler. Wonderful!!
April 5, 2021
"Where Lilacs Still Bloom: A Novel", by Jane Kirkpatrick, is based on the remarkable true life story of Hulda Klager. A German immigrant and a "farm wife" with only an eighth-grade education, Hulda's natural intellect and intuition, along with a burning curiosity, allowed her to develop hundreds of hybrid fruit and flower varieties, especially lilacs. The book is beautifully written--an inspiring and life-affirming tribute to the courage and spirit of the amazing Hulda Klager. The book begins in 1948, with a brief prologue during which the flood waters are rising and threatening to destroy Hulda's work of a lifetime. She is eighty-five years old, and as she looks down on the surging waters from the safety of a bluff, she recalls her life story. What a story it is! As the book unfolds, we share with Hulda her triumphs and sorrows, and her indomitable spirit shines throughout the years. In her own way, she was a pioneer for women's rights, a scientist, an environmentalist, and an example for anyone who won't take no for a final answer. There is a pure, timeless joy in putting a seed into the ground, nurturing its growth, and watching it come into its full glory. Hulda did all that and more, ever adding newer and more sustainable plant varieties that she first cultivated in her agile mind. The real Hulda survived until 1960, when she passed away at the age of 96. I am now in my early fifties, and I cannot imagine living four more decades, much less being vibrant and vital until the very end. Hulda outlived her beloved husband Frank, all of her children, and all of her brothers and sisters. Her gardens were restored after the disastrous flood of 1948, and to this day, they remain open to the public. The "Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens" are a National Historic Site located in Woodland, Washington. The "Hulda Klager Lilac Society" revived her annual “Lilac Days” each spring when the lilacs come into bloom, selling lilac plants to visitors just as when Hulda Klager was there. As generations come and go, Hulda's sweetly scented legacy continues to enrich lives with its beauty.
Review Copy Gratis WaterBrook Press
Review Copy Gratis WaterBrook Press
May 10, 2020
Based on the life of a German immigrant, Hulda Klager, the message of this book is such an important one, and the author evoked emotion in me as I was holding back tears several times in the book. (I would have liked a little more character development in some of the side characters.) I liked that the author tried to show how Hulda influenced people's lives all over, and that it came back to her. I like reading stories about unexpected friendships making profound differences in people's lives.
I love the idea of following our dreams and working hard for them. Hulda Klager is an inspiring example of overcoming adversity, and working hard while bringing beauty to the world around her. The beauty she brought was not just in the gardens she planted and flowers that she created, but in the way she treated others! If you are a gardener, read this! If you are not a gardener, you may want to become one after reading this. :) There are many beautiful metaphors comparing gardens and flowers to raising families, and the seasons of life.
Some favorite lines and thoughts:
"A garden is the edge of possibility."
"Not everyone understands that we are all created to have complicated challenges and dreams. We must honor our longings, then go beyond them whether others support us or not."
"Don't deny your dreams. They're a gift given to make your life full. Accept them. Reach for them. We are not here just to endure hard times until we die. We are here to live, to serve, to trust, to create out of our longings."
"A moment of joy is no small thing to give another."
"There was an aroma of neglect."
"I had my arm around her as she sat between us. We were two old stakes propping up our delicate sprout, hoping we'd be enough to bring her toward her next season of blooming."
"Grief is the price we have to pay for loving. I hope one day that you'll discover it's worth it."
"She'd taken tragedy and loss and been a good steward of them."
"We should give our sorrow words."
"We humans are simply drawn to unfold secrets."
I love the idea of following our dreams and working hard for them. Hulda Klager is an inspiring example of overcoming adversity, and working hard while bringing beauty to the world around her. The beauty she brought was not just in the gardens she planted and flowers that she created, but in the way she treated others! If you are a gardener, read this! If you are not a gardener, you may want to become one after reading this. :) There are many beautiful metaphors comparing gardens and flowers to raising families, and the seasons of life.
Some favorite lines and thoughts:
"A garden is the edge of possibility."
"Not everyone understands that we are all created to have complicated challenges and dreams. We must honor our longings, then go beyond them whether others support us or not."
"Don't deny your dreams. They're a gift given to make your life full. Accept them. Reach for them. We are not here just to endure hard times until we die. We are here to live, to serve, to trust, to create out of our longings."
"A moment of joy is no small thing to give another."
"There was an aroma of neglect."
"I had my arm around her as she sat between us. We were two old stakes propping up our delicate sprout, hoping we'd be enough to bring her toward her next season of blooming."
"Grief is the price we have to pay for loving. I hope one day that you'll discover it's worth it."
"She'd taken tragedy and loss and been a good steward of them."
"We should give our sorrow words."
"We humans are simply drawn to unfold secrets."
April 22, 2012
I love the historical/biographical fiction genre, particularly when the author has done such a great job of developing a fascinating character that it sends me scurrying to my computer to see what further information I can glean about him/her. Such is the case with WHERE LILACS STILL BLOOM by Jane Kirkpatrick. It tells of the long and challenge filled life of a self-taught horticulturist, German immigrant and housewife Hulda Klager, whose ardent and all consuming passion with the grafting, hybridization and cross breeding of plants (lilacs, daffodils, and apples in particular) resulted in her developing everything from a better baking apple to over 250 different varieties of lilacs.
While the book itself is categorized as Christian fiction, it is not overly "preachy". It is historically accurate in depicting various events which occurred in Hulda's life (from deaths to floods) and, as acknowledged by the author, many of the characters in the story are composites of actual individuals who graced Hulda's life over her 97 years on this earth. Although I found Hulda to be an engaging character, this "composite blending" may account for the rather nebulous feeling I had about several of these peripheral characters.
This is a beautifully painted word portrait of a woman whose faith in and love of her fellow man combined with a resolute, indomitable spirit afforded her the strength to survive nature's wrath as well as the fortitude to bear the loss of those she loved. Hers' is a lesson in perseverance and generosity that continues to provide us with a legacy of aromatic and visual beauty which we, as well as future generations, can enjoy.
After checking out Hulda's Gardens in Woodland, Washington on the internet, it looks like my next vacation may be spent taking in the sights of Washington State and indulging my senses with the fruits of Hulda's labor.
While the book itself is categorized as Christian fiction, it is not overly "preachy". It is historically accurate in depicting various events which occurred in Hulda's life (from deaths to floods) and, as acknowledged by the author, many of the characters in the story are composites of actual individuals who graced Hulda's life over her 97 years on this earth. Although I found Hulda to be an engaging character, this "composite blending" may account for the rather nebulous feeling I had about several of these peripheral characters.
This is a beautifully painted word portrait of a woman whose faith in and love of her fellow man combined with a resolute, indomitable spirit afforded her the strength to survive nature's wrath as well as the fortitude to bear the loss of those she loved. Hers' is a lesson in perseverance and generosity that continues to provide us with a legacy of aromatic and visual beauty which we, as well as future generations, can enjoy.
After checking out Hulda's Gardens in Woodland, Washington on the internet, it looks like my next vacation may be spent taking in the sights of Washington State and indulging my senses with the fruits of Hulda's labor.
August 27, 2012
What I most liked about this book was learning about all the different varieties and colors of lilacs, one of my favorite flowers. I've never seen a red one and only rarely have I seen pink. Mostly shades of purple or white, sometimes a dark red violet. This is the story of Hulga Klager, a woman who spent much of her life hybridizing the lilacs in her garden, starting with three different bushes she imported from France. Altogether she developed over 250 different varieties! Not only was I amazed by this accomplishment, but she did this while having to deal with some devastating floods and personal tragedy. I didn't care for the style in which this book was written. While it is called a novel, there isn't much in the way of either plot or character develoment. Read it only if you have nothing else to read or are seriously interested in lilacs.
March 5, 2017
Just visited the Hulda Klager gardens in Woodland. Do it now! It's the perfect time of year.
October 31, 2017
Great book. Fascinating look at how different flowers were developed. Good story on perseverance as well. Can't wait to go back to Woodland and check it out with new eyes!
October 11, 2021
Based on the true story of Hulga Klager and her contribution to the hybridization of lilacs. Possessing only an eighth-grade education, it is amazing to read how this woman developed her techniques for hybridization first of apples, later of lilacs and other plants. This is a wonderful read for those who like stories of inspiration about women in history, who love gardening and who love the writing style of Jane Kirkpatrick. This book is full of inspiration with words such as, "A loved garden blooms hope above all" and "Beauty matters.....God gave us flowers for a reason. I think so we would pay attention to the details of creation and remember to trust Him in all things big or little, no matter what the challenge. Flowers remind us to put away fear, to stop our rushing and worrying about this and that, and for a moment have a piece of paradise right here on earth. God offers healing through flowers and brings us closer to Him."
September 11, 2023
This was an interesting book that is based on a true story. I'm thinking it might be a wonderful book to discuss later this week. I enjoyed the story of how Hulda worked to make the lilacs be different colored. This author writes a story that flows smoothly.
June 20, 2017
This book will make you want to go back into soooo badly...to the turn of the century - to a small farm and family on the Columbia River...the house is still there and the lilacs are STILL blooming there..road trip!
March 12, 2025
This was a sweet and inspiring story. My neighborhood book club read it this month. It's about Helda Kleger, a German immigrant who had a passion for gardening and specifically breeding Lilacs. Her family story is told, along with the telling of her horticultural feats. I wished the writing had been a bit better, but overall, I enjoyed knowing about Helda and her perseverance.
June 7, 2017
3.5 stars after the book club discussion. Hulda Klager and her relentless pursuit of her flower/lilac passion inspired me. Hulda's life and her garden provided a perfect springboard for our discussion. I'm lucky enough to live close to her home and garden. I look forward to visiting next spring.
A few points from our discussion:
- Finding our passion is something we can do at any phase of life. It is never too late to discover or begin or try.
- It's the root structure more than anything that depicts the success of your plant and its bloom.
- Having dreams and passions is important, but it is the sharing of those with others that makes them worthwhile.
- If you don't know what your passion is, try asking the people who love you. We had a special experience when some of our readers revealed their passions and others discovered them through the lens of fellows readers.
Some favorite quotes:
- Life is worthwhile when it holds some beauty. It needn't be flowers. It can be helping other people-- that's beautiful.
- Suffering, I decided, happened, and so did good things, and the issue of God's power was not so much in questioning why He didn't stop floods or death but in all the rest of the time when He showed us how to be hospitable, generous, and loving.
- God knew that we'd need beauty and fragrance to help us through the difficult days, so He gave us flowers and let us learn on our own how their cycle of living and dying is like a garden's rhythm, giving us hope each spring.
- Huldie, don't deny the dreams. They're a gift given to make your life full. Accept them. Reach for them. We are not here just to endure hard times until we die. We are here to live, to serve, to trust, and to create out of our longings.
A few points from our discussion:
- Finding our passion is something we can do at any phase of life. It is never too late to discover or begin or try.
- It's the root structure more than anything that depicts the success of your plant and its bloom.
- Having dreams and passions is important, but it is the sharing of those with others that makes them worthwhile.
- If you don't know what your passion is, try asking the people who love you. We had a special experience when some of our readers revealed their passions and others discovered them through the lens of fellows readers.
Some favorite quotes:
- Life is worthwhile when it holds some beauty. It needn't be flowers. It can be helping other people-- that's beautiful.
- Suffering, I decided, happened, and so did good things, and the issue of God's power was not so much in questioning why He didn't stop floods or death but in all the rest of the time when He showed us how to be hospitable, generous, and loving.
- God knew that we'd need beauty and fragrance to help us through the difficult days, so He gave us flowers and let us learn on our own how their cycle of living and dying is like a garden's rhythm, giving us hope each spring.
- Huldie, don't deny the dreams. They're a gift given to make your life full. Accept them. Reach for them. We are not here just to endure hard times until we die. We are here to live, to serve, to trust, and to create out of our longings.
June 6, 2017
I wasn't real thrilled with this book at first. It took me a while to get into it. I think what touched my heart was the discussion we had at book club. I appreciated the different perspectives. We all came from different directions so this book touched each of us differently. Our discussion also brought out some very personal things and I felt uplifted when I left.
September 12, 2018
Where Lilacs Still Bloom, by Jane Kirkpatrick~book review
It is my opinion that Jane Kirkpatrick must be a woman with a very high I.Q. After reading some of her books, I believe she finds writing as an outlet for the restlessness that comes with being highly intelligent.
That being said, Mrs. Kirkpatrick has written a book that is about several people whose lives intersect
at some point, because of the dedication of Hulda Klager towards her lilacs, and her persistence in finding new, stronger varieties of lilacs.
It’s a pity some people might pass this book up, because they’ll miss learning about a German immigrant to America, who had a God-given talent for scientific gardening, and more than that, being a horticulturist, even though she never went past the 8th grade! Where Lilacs Still Bloom offers an abundance of hope, confidence, good life lessons, and a heart-warming look into the family and friends of this non-degreed greenskeeper and plant researcher.
This is a Christian historical fiction book, based on the true story and life of Hulda Klager.
The story starts in 1889, when Hulda was pregnant with their fourth child, and they’re getting ready to move to a farm.
You get to know her, and her husband Frank, who live on a farm in Washington state. She learns, from her dad, about grafting apple shoots onto saplings, and from that, she finds she can actually “invent” a better variety of apple, on that will peel more easily and taste more tart. You meet their children, and the other children who, by God’s wisdom, come to work and live on her farm, and learn about cross-pollination, soil management, and a host of other important details attached to Hulda’s life’s work.
I can’t say enough good about this book! It’s easy to read, very interesting and full of facts, and written in such a way as to encourage readers to perhaps learn a bit more about the propagation of flowers, or discover and visit arboretums in the USA. There’s plenty of information to get you going, if you’re the least bit curious about learning more. I got really excited about it when Hulda successfully hybridized a new variety of lilac, and when she talked to famous authors such as Luther Burbank, who was a renowned hybridizer at the time.
One more thing, The Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens are now a national historic site!
The Lilac Gardens are located off I-5 exit 21, 30 minutes north of Portland, Oregon or 2.5 hours south of Seattle, Washington at 115 South Pekin Road, Woodland, Washington 98674. (Our mailing address is PO Box 828). The Gardens are open to the public most days of the year from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m., with a $3.00 gate fee payable at the gate ($5 during lilac days, children 12 and under free) If you’d like to contact them, here are some
email addresses I got from their website: Contact the Lilac Gardens
HKLGTours@gmail.com Schedule bus/large group tours during Lilac Days
WoodlandLilacGardens@gmail.com Lilac Gardens publicity
HKLGPresident@gmail.com President, Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens Society
HKLGMembership@gmail.com Membership, Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens Society
HKLGGiftShop@gmail.com Gift Shop – open during Lilac Days only
HKLGHistoricHome@gmail.com Hulda’s home – open during Lilac Days only
Get a copy of Where Lilacs Still Bloom, and have a lovely time of reading about this nurturing and dedicated housewife who became famous just from cultivating her own flowers.
Thank you, Jane, for writing this book.
Romans 10:9-13; John 3:16-21
It is my opinion that Jane Kirkpatrick must be a woman with a very high I.Q. After reading some of her books, I believe she finds writing as an outlet for the restlessness that comes with being highly intelligent.
That being said, Mrs. Kirkpatrick has written a book that is about several people whose lives intersect
at some point, because of the dedication of Hulda Klager towards her lilacs, and her persistence in finding new, stronger varieties of lilacs.
It’s a pity some people might pass this book up, because they’ll miss learning about a German immigrant to America, who had a God-given talent for scientific gardening, and more than that, being a horticulturist, even though she never went past the 8th grade! Where Lilacs Still Bloom offers an abundance of hope, confidence, good life lessons, and a heart-warming look into the family and friends of this non-degreed greenskeeper and plant researcher.
This is a Christian historical fiction book, based on the true story and life of Hulda Klager.
The story starts in 1889, when Hulda was pregnant with their fourth child, and they’re getting ready to move to a farm.
You get to know her, and her husband Frank, who live on a farm in Washington state. She learns, from her dad, about grafting apple shoots onto saplings, and from that, she finds she can actually “invent” a better variety of apple, on that will peel more easily and taste more tart. You meet their children, and the other children who, by God’s wisdom, come to work and live on her farm, and learn about cross-pollination, soil management, and a host of other important details attached to Hulda’s life’s work.
I can’t say enough good about this book! It’s easy to read, very interesting and full of facts, and written in such a way as to encourage readers to perhaps learn a bit more about the propagation of flowers, or discover and visit arboretums in the USA. There’s plenty of information to get you going, if you’re the least bit curious about learning more. I got really excited about it when Hulda successfully hybridized a new variety of lilac, and when she talked to famous authors such as Luther Burbank, who was a renowned hybridizer at the time.
One more thing, The Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens are now a national historic site!
The Lilac Gardens are located off I-5 exit 21, 30 minutes north of Portland, Oregon or 2.5 hours south of Seattle, Washington at 115 South Pekin Road, Woodland, Washington 98674. (Our mailing address is PO Box 828). The Gardens are open to the public most days of the year from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m., with a $3.00 gate fee payable at the gate ($5 during lilac days, children 12 and under free) If you’d like to contact them, here are some
email addresses I got from their website: Contact the Lilac Gardens
HKLGTours@gmail.com Schedule bus/large group tours during Lilac Days
WoodlandLilacGardens@gmail.com Lilac Gardens publicity
HKLGPresident@gmail.com President, Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens Society
HKLGMembership@gmail.com Membership, Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens Society
HKLGGiftShop@gmail.com Gift Shop – open during Lilac Days only
HKLGHistoricHome@gmail.com Hulda’s home – open during Lilac Days only
Get a copy of Where Lilacs Still Bloom, and have a lovely time of reading about this nurturing and dedicated housewife who became famous just from cultivating her own flowers.
Thank you, Jane, for writing this book.
Romans 10:9-13; John 3:16-21
May 24, 2017
I appreciated Hulda's character. She was a faithful woman who persevered in pursuing her goals despite the grand trials she faced. She overcame many challenges and she defied all odds when it came to both the gardening community and the feminist community. She remained devoted to her family while fostering her God given gift of gardening and shared that gift and the fruits of her labors with the world. It was touching how the community gave back to her after the love and generosity she shared with them.
Her relationship with her husband was sweet. It made me sad that she didn't think he would support her in her dream at first when throughout the rest of her story he clearly supported her and made sacrifices to help her achieve her goals.
I'm glad I read this book and know Hulda's story. She is an admirable female role model. The way it was written though was a little dull overall. I didn't feel a strong connection to the characters and was not able to emotionally respond to tragedies that occurred.
Her relationship with her husband was sweet. It made me sad that she didn't think he would support her in her dream at first when throughout the rest of her story he clearly supported her and made sacrifices to help her achieve her goals.
I'm glad I read this book and know Hulda's story. She is an admirable female role model. The way it was written though was a little dull overall. I didn't feel a strong connection to the characters and was not able to emotionally respond to tragedies that occurred.
June 1, 2017
I read this book about the real story of Hulda Klager while the large lilac bloom on the corner of our 200 year old house was in full bloom. I became absorbed in her world rather quickly and still carry the inspiration she gave me to work even harder in our gardens. This was a great book!
December 16, 2017
This is historical fiction based on the real life of Hulda Klager who at the turn of the last century, began breeding and propigating lilacs. Eventually she had created over 250 new varieties. I enjoyed the book and found some deeply profound thoughts in it, but this is the kind of book that moves kind of slow and I struggled to get into it. There are a lot of characters to figure out in the beginning and because I took so long in reading it, that had me a bit confused. But eventually their lives came together and I understood why they were aĺ there in the book.
I liked the way that Hulda kept wondering if she was doing the will of God in her life. Some around her accused her of messing with God's creations. She worried that she was just wasting time at best or bringing the wrath of God down on her family and being punished for meddling with nature and science as time and again flood waters destroyed her gardens and death visited her household. Yet something in the creative process of cultivating new and better flowers called to her soul.
It took a while to finish, but I enjoyed the book and the peaceful writing.
I liked the way that Hulda kept wondering if she was doing the will of God in her life. Some around her accused her of messing with God's creations. She worried that she was just wasting time at best or bringing the wrath of God down on her family and being punished for meddling with nature and science as time and again flood waters destroyed her gardens and death visited her household. Yet something in the creative process of cultivating new and better flowers called to her soul.
It took a while to finish, but I enjoyed the book and the peaceful writing.
August 11, 2012
For years, since moving to the NW in 1983, I've wanted to visit Hulda Klager's Lilac Gardens in Woodland, WA. Every year something else has taken precedence over the trip up I-5 in spring.
I'm so grateful to Jane Kirkpatrick for at least bringing Hulda and her love of flowers to my family room and reading chair. Once again, Kirkpatrick brings her characters to life not only with her words but visual imagery and heart.
Hulda Klager, of German descent as is my husband, shows a stubborn streak which is all too real to me. Her determination and passion for her flowers, especially the propagation of lilacs, jumps from the page. One can almost smell the heady scent of their blossoms.
Spurred on by her father's encouragement, Hulda counters the standard of the day for women and dabbles in things scientific. Yet, she never loses sight of her faith in God, and in a conversation with her older sister, Bertha, she speaks of "living things" in a touching and spiritual manner:
"Living things offer solace, Bertha. I can't remove the poverty of the Smith children, though I try, I do. Frank and I support the deacon's fund. But when I brought Mrs. Smith fresh-picked vegetables last summer and included a bouquet of my lilacs, it was the flowers she went to first. She inhaled their scent, and for a moment as she buried her face in them, I think she forgot about the misery of her drinking husband and the rags on her children. She needed a moment to gain strength from those petals to face her life as it is. A moment of joy is no small thing to give another." (p. 79)
Faced with many difficulties in her own life and questions raised about her propagation and experiments, Hulda remains strong throughout. She never loses sight of God's presence in her day-to-day living and reminds us all in her story that good times will follow the difficult if we stay strong in Him.
One last quote from the book which resonated with me as indicative of Hulda Klager's philosophy of life:
"[L]ife is worthwhile when it holds some beauty. It needn't be flowers. It can be helping other people--that's beautiful." (p. 356)
A long-time fan of Jane Kirkpatrick's writing, Where the Lilacs Still Bloom did not disappoint. As always, Kirkpatrick's references to history are correct and her plot and character development give the reader with a wish to keep turning the pages. Of all her books written about real women living in the history of our country, this ranks among my favorites.
* * *
I received this book free from WaterBrook Multnomah for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own.
I'm so grateful to Jane Kirkpatrick for at least bringing Hulda and her love of flowers to my family room and reading chair. Once again, Kirkpatrick brings her characters to life not only with her words but visual imagery and heart.
Hulda Klager, of German descent as is my husband, shows a stubborn streak which is all too real to me. Her determination and passion for her flowers, especially the propagation of lilacs, jumps from the page. One can almost smell the heady scent of their blossoms.
Spurred on by her father's encouragement, Hulda counters the standard of the day for women and dabbles in things scientific. Yet, she never loses sight of her faith in God, and in a conversation with her older sister, Bertha, she speaks of "living things" in a touching and spiritual manner:
"Living things offer solace, Bertha. I can't remove the poverty of the Smith children, though I try, I do. Frank and I support the deacon's fund. But when I brought Mrs. Smith fresh-picked vegetables last summer and included a bouquet of my lilacs, it was the flowers she went to first. She inhaled their scent, and for a moment as she buried her face in them, I think she forgot about the misery of her drinking husband and the rags on her children. She needed a moment to gain strength from those petals to face her life as it is. A moment of joy is no small thing to give another." (p. 79)
Faced with many difficulties in her own life and questions raised about her propagation and experiments, Hulda remains strong throughout. She never loses sight of God's presence in her day-to-day living and reminds us all in her story that good times will follow the difficult if we stay strong in Him.
One last quote from the book which resonated with me as indicative of Hulda Klager's philosophy of life:
"[L]ife is worthwhile when it holds some beauty. It needn't be flowers. It can be helping other people--that's beautiful." (p. 356)
A long-time fan of Jane Kirkpatrick's writing, Where the Lilacs Still Bloom did not disappoint. As always, Kirkpatrick's references to history are correct and her plot and character development give the reader with a wish to keep turning the pages. Of all her books written about real women living in the history of our country, this ranks among my favorites.
* * *
I received this book free from WaterBrook Multnomah for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own.
June 3, 2012
History is more than rulers, wars, or famous people. History can be found in knowing the past and the origins of the simplest things. These can include flowers. Where did the flowers we take for granted today come from? Where did so many of the versions of lilacs originate? The historical fiction book, Where Lilacs Still Bloom, by Jane Kirkpatrick can help you answer this.
So many historical stories can be told through historical fiction where an author takes some liberties in an event or the life of a person and makes it a little more dramatic. Ms. Kirkpatrick explores the life of Hulda Klager who did not receive a formal education past the eighth grade but learned to create various hydrids of apples, daffodils, and lilacs that have since found homes across America.
Hulda and Frank Klager made a home in Washington state where they raised their four children. As they grew up and founded families of their own, Hulda began to see how a hobby and desire to create different colored lilacs was actually a representation of life. As she encountered joy, love, sorrow, and the bleakness the world can bring upon you, she found herself living life as her flowers did. She had her blooming seasons and her dormant times as well as the times nature sought destruction.
I found myself crying as the book progressed. I hate to read of someone’s pain in life which was made even more bittersweet as she compared everything to her flowers, especially the lilacs. Life is seasonal and can be weathered.
Through this story, you learn how a lack of education is not an excuse for not finding happiness or success. You learn that people can survive the hardest times and find themselves blooming in the warmth of a new day’s sun. The book is a lesson to all that the stronger we are, the brighter we’ll bloom.
This is a fictional story based on the true life of Hulda Klager. The author puts in the front a list of characters that helps the reader with relationships and to know who is historically accurate and who is completely fictitious. These fictitious characters were placed in the book as an artistic way to explain the impact one German immigrant woman with determination had on those across the country. There is also a map to understand the location of the Klager farm as well as a picture of Hulda herself at her famous home. Located at the end of the book is an author’s note explaining how the end of Hulda’s life played out and the impact she truly had on America.
Note: I was given this book by the publisher with no expectation of a positive review.
So many historical stories can be told through historical fiction where an author takes some liberties in an event or the life of a person and makes it a little more dramatic. Ms. Kirkpatrick explores the life of Hulda Klager who did not receive a formal education past the eighth grade but learned to create various hydrids of apples, daffodils, and lilacs that have since found homes across America.
Hulda and Frank Klager made a home in Washington state where they raised their four children. As they grew up and founded families of their own, Hulda began to see how a hobby and desire to create different colored lilacs was actually a representation of life. As she encountered joy, love, sorrow, and the bleakness the world can bring upon you, she found herself living life as her flowers did. She had her blooming seasons and her dormant times as well as the times nature sought destruction.
I found myself crying as the book progressed. I hate to read of someone’s pain in life which was made even more bittersweet as she compared everything to her flowers, especially the lilacs. Life is seasonal and can be weathered.
Through this story, you learn how a lack of education is not an excuse for not finding happiness or success. You learn that people can survive the hardest times and find themselves blooming in the warmth of a new day’s sun. The book is a lesson to all that the stronger we are, the brighter we’ll bloom.
This is a fictional story based on the true life of Hulda Klager. The author puts in the front a list of characters that helps the reader with relationships and to know who is historically accurate and who is completely fictitious. These fictitious characters were placed in the book as an artistic way to explain the impact one German immigrant woman with determination had on those across the country. There is also a map to understand the location of the Klager farm as well as a picture of Hulda herself at her famous home. Located at the end of the book is an author’s note explaining how the end of Hulda’s life played out and the impact she truly had on America.
Note: I was given this book by the publisher with no expectation of a positive review.
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