“The Four Winds have blown us here, people from all across the country, to the very edge of this great land, and now, at last, we make our stand, fight for what we know to be right. We fight for our American dream, that will be possible again.”

Kristin Hannah’s novel, "The Four Winds," could very well be the most beautiful book I’ve ever read. Set in the 1930s, the story follows Elsa from childhood to motherhood, where Hannah seamlessly transitions to include the perspective of Elsa’s daughter, Loreda. The novel centers around the Great Depression, vividly depicting the hardships and resilience of the people during this dire period in history.

Although the novel is fictional, it poignantly highlights the real experiences of the Great Depression, its impact on workers' rights, and the true meaning of freedom in America. This novel is not for the faint of heart—it’s profoundly sad, often bringing tears and culminating in a powerful, emotional climax.

I don’t want to divulge too many details, as the journey is best experienced firsthand by the reader. However, I can't recommend this book enough. It’s a moving and unforgettable read.

“We fought, we struggled, we hurt each other, so what? That’s what love is, I think. It’s all of it. Tears, anger, joy, struggle. Mostly, it’s durable. It lasts.”