'A Secret to Be Burried' : The Diary and Life of Emily Hawley Gillespie, 1858-1888

by Judy Nolte Lensink

OUR COPY HAS THE SAME COVER AS STOCK PHOTO SHOWN. SCUFFING, EDGE WEAR, SOME DISCOLORATION & CHIPPING ON COVERS AND SPINE. CREASE ON SPINE. THERE COULD BE DISCOLORATION OR MARKING ON PAGES, NOT AFFECTING READABILITY.

Genres: History

472 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 1989

Reviews

[Therese Clark · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read this book three times (so far) because I feel I've come to know Emily and want to continue to know her better. It's a wonderful woman's historical perspective of westward expansion, courting in the 1850's, marriage and children with all its joys and trials...so many things. I've also enjoyed reading about the complicated dynamics between Emily and her family and friends. I'm so thankful that Emily was so diligent to keep these journals over 30 years. She deserves to be heard. The historical background and reference material by the author is extensive and informative, necessary as you read Emily's entries. I highly recommend this book for those that enjoy this genre. With the help of the author, Emily has made her place in history.

[Bookclub Bullies · Rating 4 out of 5]

One of our bookclub members read this book! She really liked it because you got to see important historical events (Civil War, prohibition, women’s rights) from Emily’s personal perspective, and how much it effected (or didn’t effect) her life.

It was also fascinating to understand what life was like in rural Iowa in the 1800s: dating, constant death, family dynamics, and the amazing amount of work everyone had to do.

You can see the full review and discussion here:
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=g-kPS-J...