Hi gang,

I read a very interesting article on the real life relationship between Laura and her daughter Rose. It sheds some light on the difficulties that mother and daughter faced in their relationship. It also talks about what the real Laura and Almanzo were like. Overall, it is a worthwhile read.

Wilder Women by Judith Thurman

Very interesting article. Having read Holtz's biography of Rose, I see a lot of references to his material. I'll have to check out the newer LIW biographies mentioned in this article. I knew about the first, but not the second one.

Thanks for sharing.

I do not agree with Rose about all things. BUT I do believe despite her saying that her mother was given the wrong daughter, God knew Rose and Laura would be right together.
I'm sure they grumbled alot, but they probably made each other better in alot of ways. I'm thankful Rose tried to care for her parents, however I don't believe she really listened to them at times.
How things might have been different if Manly and Laura's son had lived.

I first read The First Four Years as a 10 year old, and did not see this as being too old for me or badly written. I knew Laura's story up to that point, and just wanted more. I'm glad she continued to write about those years. I can only imagine the tears she must have shed while sitting at that writting desk. She shared because this was not only her story but many other pioneers as well. I'm grateful for her courage in her experiences as well as writing them.
I'm sure Rose had some imput in Laura's books, but at least she knew Laura had a unique story to share. Laura knew how to explain what she saw, she learned this helping Mary. As well as pioneers are some of the best storytellers of all time. She simply knew how to express herself, so of course she is the one behind the bulk of these stories. I agrue this point every time I hear about "The Ghost in the Little House".