Willa Cather, a great American author writing in the early 1900’s is known for writing stories about the land with strong female characters.  Unlike many girls at the time, Willa was encouraged by her parents to become whoever she wanted to be.  Even as a child, she chose a path different from other girls.

The chunky nature of the book makes it difficult to glean biographical information.  Each new section of the book focuses on a specific time without transitions or connections.  The episodic telling of parts of Willa’s early life, however, feeds well into the later references made between her writing and memorable times and places from her younger years.

One drawback of the book is the disconnect between the subject matter and the reading level.  Willa Cather’s work is typically introduced to students at the high school level, yet this biography is more appropriate for upper elementary and middle school.  As a study of a historical era or of a strong woman brave enough to challenge societal norms, this is a good addition to a library.