The Year We Were Famous

Sometimes a book comes along that you just know will be good.  So it was with great anticipation that I just placed a hold on a just-released title, The Year We Were Famous, by Carole Estby Dagg.

The novel is based on the true  story of a mother and her 17-year-old daughter, Helga and Clara Estby, who walked from their home in Mica Creek, Washington (near Spokane) to New York City in 1896.  With nothing but a seven-pound satchel each, the women set off on the 4600 mile trip in hopes of meeting the challenge made to them by a publisher: if they'd complete the trip in seven months he'd give them $10,000 in order to save the family farm! According to the author, "Their walk would also prove that women deserved the vote, because it would demonstrate that women were more resourceful, intelligent, and persevering than men gave them credit for."

Take a few minutes to check out Carole Esty Dagg's website to learn more about the book (be sure you watch the trailer on the website!).  Then find your way to the nearest bookstore or library and get a copy for yourself!