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I'm proud to announce that this book won the 2010 Ferguson Kansas History Book Award.
A childhood on the Kansas prairies in the 1930s springs vividly to life in the detailed memories of Gail Martin. Her simple accounts of long ago school days, celebrations and family life are a treasure. Travel back in time to life in the Flint Hills during the Great Depression and the time leading up to World War II.
The memories include her father's work in the oil field, trips to town in the family's Model A, raising her pet badger, fishing on the Cottonwood River, and wearing dresses made from feed sack material.
The book also explores her family's role in early Kansas history with details of covered wagons, homesteading, the Civil War and fledgling industries. These range from Tyro to Teterville to Eureka.
This edition includes a section with About The Author and a McGhee, Vining, and Tower Family Album.
Take a look at the book Clyde Owen Martin to read more of Gail Lee Martin's writing and some by her daughters, Cynthia Ross and Virginia Allain.
Publish Date November 22, 2009
Dimensions Pocket 198 pgs Black and White printing (on cream uncoated paper)
Category Biographies & Memoirs
Tags oil field, Flint Hills, Great Depression
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vallain1 says
Here's a comment by Gerald Brazil: Gail grew up in the 30’s in the oil fields of Greenwood County and her book paints a very real picture of the time and place.
Gail’s book is not only well written, it is beautifully and professionally crafted with black and white photographs integrated with the text.
Gail’s book won the 2010 Kansas Authors Club’s Ferguson Kansas History Award.
posted at 05:25pm Nov 01 PST
Momose says
What a wonderful tribute, Gail, to your family and heritage! You are an inspiration to those wondering if their life experiences could make a compelling read for others. I look forward to reading more.
Peggy Strickland
posted at 11:15am Jul 24 PST
kboybob says
I loved the preview. You are very talented.
posted at 05:24pm Jun 01 PST
vallain1 says
Here's a comment received by e-mail:
"I just wanted to let you know that I just received your mother’s book.
It’s just wonderful. I’m so impressed with her writing and what you’ve done with it." Scott
posted at 05:43pm Jan 21 PST
vallain1 says
Comments from the author's website:
Ok, you are the BEST! Your description of Saturday at the movies prompted much reminiscing by my 92 year old Mom and me. You guys must have been at the same theater (or they were all like that!). Thanks so much. This is a wonderful story. (GottaLoveIt)
I loved the story about decorating for Christmas. The glimpse of your life in those days was so interesting and wonderful. What a contrast to the commercial holiday of today. I loved your descriptions and the pictures are great (especially the ones with the Halloween memories). Great reading! (Mandica)
I particularly liked reading about the prairie dolls. Very sweet and nostalgic story. Thanks for sharing this dying art with us. (Cherst)
You are a wonderful writer. Thank you for sharing. (Veryirie)
You are such an inspiration, I love all of the stories I’ve read so far. I checked out your book on Blurb, how fascinating! (Cindy Sully)
I am always riveted to your storylines… you have a flair for drama and detail. I’m glad you’re writing your memoirs in book form, it will be a hit ! (Shirley Philbrick)
Love reading your stories. I never want them to end. (J.M. Knudson)
The health remedies bring back some great memories of growing up. Thank you for it. (Kimi from eHow)
posted at 07:40pm Nov 23 PST