The Calling of Ella McFarlandBy Linda Brooks DavisDescription:
Ella McFarland’s dream is a teaching position at Oklahoma Territory's Worthington School for Girls. But scandal clouds her family name and may limit her to a life of grueling labor on her family's farm in Indian Territory. Her fate lies in the hands of the Worthington board. Might handsome Mr. Evans help her reach her dream? Will the board overlook the illegitimate son recently borne by her sister, Viola? Book Takeaway:One woman's devotion to a serendipitous calling can transform not only those she rescues but her very self as she discovers the layers of grace God has laid upon her. Awards:
Why the author wrote this book:
From an early age I heard my grandmother and mother tell stories of life in Indian Territory and the new state of Oklahoma. Their lives were rife with hardship, trial, and grief. Rather than weakening them or their faith, such experiences empowered them as women and strengthened their faith. My grandmother had a 3rd grade education, and my mother, a 9th. Mother would accept nothing less than a college education for her children. Nor would she depend on a man to do something she could do herself. My grandmother buried 2 husbands and 5 daughters but never lost her faith. My mother buried a son and tended an ailing husband for 10 grueling years yet never blamed God. |