On June 26, 1778, Abigail Jane Stewart writes these words in her diary: "I'm beginning to believe that unpleasant events often work together for good, like a coat of many colors." In many ways, these words epitomize The Winter of the Red Snow. Kristiana Gregory's fictionalized diary of eleven-year-old Abigail Jane Stewart, her family, friends, and neighbors in Valley Forge, renders a vivid portrayal of one of the most memorable winters in American history.
Until the Army arrives, the Stewart family's life seems to be quite comfortable. But life changes quickly when, early on a frigid December morning, Abby and her sisters, Elisabeth and Sally, awaken to the unfamiliar sound of drums. The soldiers are coming. By the time the weary column passes them, the youngsters realize how truly blessed their own lives are. These soldiers, many younger than fifteen-year-old Elisabeth, stumbled forward on frozen, bleeding feet, some with no trousers, others with arms bare in the freezing sleet. The pages of Abby's diary are packed with anecdotes of George Washington's concern for his soldiers and love for his wife. Martha Washington evolves as an effervescent well-spring of encouragement to everyone she touches, especially Abby who accompanies her on trips to visit the ailing soldiers. Never have these two figures seemed more alive than on the General's birthday when we become Abby's co-conspirators, peeking through a window to see "the General with his hands on his hips and his pigtail bouncing-he was doing a jig!" The next morning, when Abby and Elizabeth arrive to fetch the Washington's laundry, Martha greets them with left-over cake from the party. "I saved these for you, girls, some of the Old Man's birthday cake. Here ye go."
Hardship is a constant companion for soldiers and citizens alike during their winter in Valley Forge. Through the pages of her diary, Abby pieces together the beauty, pain, and blessings to create a coat of many colors for her readers to try on.
|
|
