Prairie Lotus

Book excerpt: Dakota Territory, 1880. When Hanna arrives in the town of LaForge, she sees possibiltiies. Her father coupld open a shop on the main street. She could go to school, if there is a school, and even realize her dream of becoming a dressmaker--provided she can convince Papa, that is. She and Papa could make a home here. But Hanna is half-Chinese, and she knows from experience that most white people don't want neighbors who aren't white themselves. The people of LaForge have never seen an Asian person before; most are unwelcoming and unfriendly--but they don't even know her! Hannah is determined to stay in LaForge and persuade them to see byond her surface. In a setting that will be recognized by fans of Laura Ingalls Wilder's Little House books, this compelling story of resolution and persistence, told with humor, insight, and charm, offers a fresh look at a long-established view of history. -- From dust jacket.