OK, I admit it. I am that girl — the one who selects books based on whether or not I like the cover. And when I spotted Prayers for Sale late last year at Borders, I was drawn to the antique dress floating above a peaceful-looking mountain town. While I had never heard of author Sandra Dallas, the staff reviews really piqued my interest. Little did I know that this historical novel would turn out to be one of the best books I read in 2010.
Set in 1936, Prayers for Sale tells the story of two women — eighty-six-year-old Hennie Comfort, and the newly married seventeen-year-old Nit Spindle — who form an unlikely friendship in the Great Depression-ravaged gold mining town of Middle Swan, Colorado.
The story begins one late winter afternoon when Hennie, peering out her window, notices Nit curiously studying an old sign outside of Hennie’s home that reads PRAYERS FOR SALE. Hennie is instantly drawn to the young girl and invites her to come in out of the cold. Of course, Hennie wouldn't think of accepting Nit’s money for a prayer; she's never accepted money from anyone. And even though they never really get around to sharing any prayers, they do begin to reveal the stories of the struggles and hardships that have shaped their lives.
Hennie soon invites Nit to join her quilting circle, the Tenmile Quilters, and it is during these quilting sessions that their friendship deepens. Dark secrets are revealed, and I was genuinely surprised by many of the revelations, especially Hennie's.
Ms. Dallas' portrayal of Hennie's kind, nurturing demeanor and Nit's simplicity lends an authentic quality to these characters and their exceptional journey through tragedies and triumphs. An enjoyable, highly recommended read!
I can ONLY imagine the struggles that one could go through during the depression. It is why our elderly are the way they are.
ReplyDeleteMy great aunt has PLENTY of money. She worked forever. Yet, she only had a window unit in her house in Atlanta, and she never had a washer or a dryer.