"Sarah, Plain and Tall" by Patricia MacLachlan is a heartwarming and beautifully written story about love, family, and finding one's place in the world. It takes place in the late 19th century on a prairie farm where a widowed father, Anna, and Caleb live. Seeking a new mother, their father puts an ad in the paper for a mail-order bride, and Sarah Elisabeth Wheaton responds.
Sarah's arrival immediately captures the hearts of Anna and Caleb with her kindness, care, and zest for life. Through MacLachlan's simple yet lyrical prose, she captures the essence of the characters and the setting, immersing the reader in the vast and untamed beauty of the prairie. Anna serves as the narrator, her authentic and honest voice making her relatable to readers of all ages. Caleb's curiosity and innocence bring moments of humor and sweetness, while their father's love for his children is palpable.
But it is Sarah who is the heart and soul of the novel. Strong, independent, and fiercely loyal, she brings a breath of fresh air to the family. As the story unfolds, Sarah's presence not only brings healing and joy but also teaches important lessons about love, acceptance, and finding beauty in unexpected places. The plot may be uncomplicated, but the story brims with emotion and tackles themes of love, loss, and resilience.
Available on Audible
"Sarah, Plain and Tall" is a timeless and moving tale that captures the hearts of readers. MacLachlan's exquisite storytelling and well-drawn characters make this book a true gem. It reminds us of the power of love, the beauty of the natural world, and the strength of the human spirit. Whether you're a fan of historical fiction or simply appreciate a beautifully written book, "Sarah, Plain and Tall" is a must-read.
Sarah, Plain and Tall is a beloved children's book penned by Patricia MacLachlan that tells the heartwarming tale of a family living on the prairies in search of a motherly figure. The book has received rave reviews, with readers praising MacLachlan's exquisite writing style, the relatable and endearing characters, as well as the poignant exploration of love, loss, and family dynamics.
Reviewers consistently commend Patricia MacLachlan for her simple yet poetic writing style, which effortlessly weaves together words to create vivid images of the prairie landscape and evoke a sense of nostalgia. Readers particularly appreciate MacLachlan's ability to convey deep emotions using spare and concise prose, which lends a powerful and impactful quality to the narrative.
The characters in Sarah, Plain and Tall also garner high praise. Sarah, the central character, is admired for her strength and independence, as she brings joy and love into the lives of the children and their father. Reviewers were moved by the genuine and tender relationships portrayed in the book and found the characters to be realistic and relatable.
The themes explored in Sarah, Plain and Tall strike a chord with many readers. The book beautifully addresses themes of longing, loss, and healing, offering an inspiring message of hope and resilience. Reviewers appreciated the sensitive handling of these themes by MacLachlan, noting that they were accessible to young readers without diminishing their impact.
Readers also appreciate the historical and geographical aspects of the book. Set in the 19th century on the American prairie, Sarah, Plain and Tall provides a glimpse into a different time and place. Reviewers enjoyed learning about the challenges faced by families settling in new territories, as well as the unique beauty of the prairies.
SarahSencillaYAlta BookReview MustRead