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Hardscrabble by Sandra Dallas: A Poignant Tale of the American Dream

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Hardscrabble By Sandra Dallas, A Novel Set In The Post Civil War Era That Follows The Journey Of A Young Woman Named Ruth From Poverty To Prosperity Hardscrabble Sandra Dallas

Sandra Dallas's Hardscrabble is a captivating novel that explores the complexities of the American Dream through the lens of a young woman named Ruth. The story, set in the post-Civil War era, follows Ruth's journey from poverty to prosperity, showcasing both the challenges and rewards of striving for a better life.

Ruth is a strong and determined young woman who is born into poverty. She is orphaned at a young age and forced to fend for herself. She eventually finds work as a servant in a wealthy household, but she is treated poorly and subjected to abuse. Despite these hardships, Ruth never gives up on her dream of a better life.

Hardscrabble

by Sandra Dallas

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1317 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	264 pages

When the Civil War breaks out, Ruth sees an opportunity to escape her life of servitude. She joins the Union Army as a nurse, and she serves with distinction. After the war, she returns home and uses her skills as a nurse to help others. She eventually opens her own hospital, and she becomes a respected member of her community.

Hardscrabble is a powerful and moving novel that tells the story of a young woman who overcomes adversity to achieve her dreams. The novel is beautifully written and emotionally resonant, and it is sure to stay with readers long after they finish it.

Setting

Hardscrabble is set in the post-Civil War era, a time of great change and upheaval in the United States. The novel is set in the fictional town of Hardscrabble, Missouri, a place that is struggling to rebuild after the war. The town is divided by racial tensions, and the economy is in shambles.

Ruth's journey takes her from the poverty of Hardscrabble to the wealth and privilege of Boston. Along the way, she experiences both the best and worst of American society. She sees the racism and violence that is still rampant in the South, but she also sees the hope and opportunity that is available to those who are willing to work hard.

Characters

Ruth is a complex and well-developed character. She is a strong and determined woman, but she is also vulnerable and compassionate. She has a deep sense of justice, and she is always willing to stand up for what she believes in.

The other characters in the novel are equally well-drawn. Ruth's family and friends are flawed and complex, but they are also deeply loving and supportive. The novel also features a number of historical figures, such as Frederick Douglass and Susan B. Anthony.

Themes

Hardscrabble explores a number of important themes, including the American Dream, race, and gender. The novel shows how the American Dream is not always easy to achieve, but it is still worth striving for. The novel also shows how race and gender can affect a person's life chances.

Hardscrabble is a timely and important novel that has something to say about the American experience. The novel is a reminder that the American Dream is not just an ideal, but a reality that can be achieved by anyone who is willing to work hard and never give up.

Critical Reception

Hardscrabble has received widespread critical acclaim. The novel has been praised for its strong characters, beautiful writing, and thought-provoking themes. The novel has been compared to the work of Toni Morrison and Alice Walker.

Hardscrabble is a must-read for anyone interested in American history, literature, or women's studies. The novel is a powerful and moving story that will stay with readers long after they finish it.

Hardscrabble

by Sandra Dallas

4.6 out of 5