Under the Distant Sky

Ready for another western? This is brought to you by Al & Joanna Lacy, authors of Outlaw Marshal.
In Under the Distant Sky, we join the family of Solomon and Hannah Cooper, proprietors of Cooper's General Store in Independence, Missouri. It is around the year 1860 and their town is a gathering place for wagon trains heading west. Those gearing up for travel are making their last minute supply purchases. With all the talk and excitement, the idea of moving west starts settling in Sol Cooper's mind and heart. He and Hannah have been diligently taking this to the Lord in prayer, seeking His guidance as to whether this is a move He really wants them to make They have to consider the possible dangers for not only themselves but for their four children as well. Hannah is reluctant, for she, as most women, see not only the adventure ahead but the security and bonds of community life that will be left behind.

After much prayer and finally confirmation that comes through former Union Army officers and friends whom Solomon and Hannah were close to while he was in the Civil War, they both settle in their hearts that they are to leave Independence and move to Fort Bridger, where they will establish another general store. They break the news to Hannah's parents who are blatantly against the whole idea, questioning that they've heard correctly, are neglecting the dangers to their grandchildren, reminding them that they are up in years and will most likely never see them again, and even though invited, will definitely not come along. Knowing the Lord has made the decision for them, the Cooper's step out in faith on their covered wagon adventure.

I think we tend to romanticize life in the old west, and the Lacys paint a good picture of the hardships. I mean, can you imagine a goal of 15 miles a day (on level ground, that is), cooking over a campfire every night, washing once a week in a river, and exposed to all the forces of nature? There are plenty of challenges along the way, with troublemakers in the group, thunder, lightning and hail, lack of water, Pawnees, rattlesnakes, etc. There are plenty of bright moments, too, with new friends made, salvations, and spiritual growth.

If you like western adventures, I think you will enjoy Under the Distant Sky.
As Ward Bond would say, "Wagons, ho-o-o!"

Published by Multnomah.