While browsing through the new audio books in the library I came across The Daughter’s Walk by Jane Kirkpatrick. I was in desperate need of something to listen to during my short jolts around town and this book sounded fascinating. The Daughter’s Walk is based on the life of Clara Estby. In 1896, Clara’s mother Helga accepts a wager from the fashion industry to walk from Spokane, Washington to New York City promoting the new dress for women and 19-year-old Clara is recruited to accompany her. The first half of the book follows the two on their 7 month adventure , which ended up keeping them away from home for over a year.
The women had a deadline to meet, had to get signatures along the way and were not allowed to take public transportation. Clara and her mother would take small jobs along the way to earn money for food and never knew where they would be spending the next night. Imagine two women walking 3,500 miles alone in the 1890’s! It really did happen and here is the picture to prove it!
Helga and Clara Estby in Minneapolis, 1897. (Photo courtesy of Bahr family collection)
Along the way, secrets are revealed which would rock Clara’s world. After returning home, Clara realizes that she has no choice but to leave and the second part of the book follows her as she leaves home and makes a life for herself. The Daughter’s Walk is a fascinating read and the fact that it is based on a true story makes it that much better. Jane Kirkpatrick is the author of numerous historical novels and I look forward to reading or listening to more of them.
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