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Half Broke Horses

Jeannette Walls

0 Pages
2010

Half Broke Horses

Scribner

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"Half Broke Horses" - Summary

"Those old cows knew trouble was coming before we did.โ€ This single sentence plunges the reader into the captivating world of Lily Casey Smith, a woman as untamed and resilient as the American West she called home. "Half Broke Horses," a captivating blend of fact and fiction, chronicles the extraordinary life of Jeannette Walls' grandmother, painting a vivid portrait of resilience, determination, and unwavering spirit against the backdrop of a changing nation. Key Themes:

Key Themes

1

The Indomitable Spirit of the American Pioneer

Lily's life, from her childhood on a remote ranch to her adventures as a teacher in a frontier town, embodies the grit and determination of those who tamed the Wild West. She faces challenges head-on, whether it's breaking horses, traversing treacherous landscapes on horseback, or navigating the hardships of the Great Depression. Her story is a testament to the human capacity for resilience in the face of adversity.

2

The Power of Family and Unconventional Upbringing

Raised in a family that viewed hardship as a way of life, Lily develops an unbreakable bond with her loved ones, especially her father. He instills in her the values of hard work, self-reliance, and an unflinching acceptance of life's unpredictability. This unconventional upbringing shapes her into the strong, independent woman she becomes, capable of navigating a world resistant to female autonomy.

3

The Evolving Landscape of the American West

Spanning the late 19th and early 20th centuries, "Half Broke Horses" offers a glimpse into the evolving landscape of the American West. From the open range to burgeoning towns and the rise of modern technology, Lily witnesses firsthand the transformation of a nation and adapts with characteristic resilience. The story captures a pivotal moment in American history, marked by both progress and hardship.

FAQ's

While classified as a novel, the book is based on the real life of Jeannette Walls' grandmother, Lily Casey Smith. Walls blends factual details with fictional elements to create a compelling narrative, acknowledging the blurring of lines between memory and historical accuracy.

"Half Broke Horses" serves as a prequel of sorts to Walls' acclaimed memoir, "The Glass Castle." Lily Casey Smith is the mother of Rosemary Smith Walls, a central figure in "The Glass Castle." Readers gain a deeper understanding of the family dynamics and values that shaped the characters and events depicted in the earlier memoir.

This book appeals to readers interested in historical fiction, strong female characters, and stories about the American West. Those who enjoyed "The Glass Castle" or the works of authors like Willa Cather and Laura Ingalls Wilder will likely find "Half Broke Horses" a captivating and insightful read.

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