921 reviews for:

O Pioneers!

Willa Cather

3.8 AVERAGE


I really liked leaning into the heart of the pioneers in this region as it is close to where some of my ancestors settled. Alexandra, the main character, is so different from me in most aspects, yet she is a confidant and strong woman from her youth. All the characters were painted with clarity and you can almost feel the essence of the time.
adventurous lighthearted medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: No

3.5

This is a marvelous and mesmerizing book. There is a central, unforgettable character and a compelling story, but what made me try to slow to my most unhurried reading pace is the beautiful, evocative, poetic prose. This book is a classic for a reason.
emotional lighthearted relaxing slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: No
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

Even though it is a rather sad book I found it weirdly comforting. I really want to read the other books in the Great Plains trilogy. This was my second Willa Cather book and I kind of feel like I will end up reading all her works eventually. I just really like her style a lot.
emotional hopeful reflective medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated
emotional reflective sad slow-paced

4.5/5 - truly loved this book! Like grown-up Little House on the Prairie. Swedish settlers in Nebraska, really lovely prose :)
adventurous emotional funny hopeful inspiring sad fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated