Follow the Stars Home
The first steamboat to traverse the Mississippi River in 1811 is the unique setting for this compelling novel of a momentous journey. It narrates the story of Lydia Roosevelt, an intelligent, brave, and determined young wife and mother who accompanies her husband Nicholas on this voyage, which begins when she is eight months pregnant. As the architectural designer of the living spaces on board, she wants to experience this adventure firsthand with her inventor husband who has worked tirelessly to build and promote the steamboat as a better means of transportation than horse and carriage.
The vivid depiction of what life was like on this first steamboat is told in the imagined voice of Lydia, who likens her own memories to the movement of water coursing in and around her other thoughts. She weaves episodes of fear and wonder from her childhood into her contemporary life on board as a way to make sense of what she is experiencing and how she might look back on it in the future. Day-to-day activities with her children, as well as singular and terrifying episodes, are all stitched into her thoughts about her husband, her own past, and their future. Far from a peaceful journey, dangers abound on this trip, and unimaginable near-catastrophes are ever present. Throughout, Lydia confronts, perseveres, and ultimately succeeds in her role as helpmate, astute crewmember, and intrepid adventurer. A worthwhile read!
