Book Review: Where Lilacs Still Bloom

True PinkI came upon this book quite by accident.  I was looking for a book to read while I waited on another book.  I came across this book and thought it might be interesting.

I had no idea what to expect or if I’d really enjoy it.  When I read that it was about growing lilacs, I wasn’t sure.  I love beautiful flowers, but gardening is not my forte.

I found this book to be much better than I anticipated.  If you are looking for a detailed, how to book on growing lilacs this book is not for you. where Lilacs Still Bloom

Where Lilacs Still Bloom by Jane Kirkpatrick is the story of Hulda Klager, who lived from 1880-1960.

Hulda Klager longed to make apples larger and easier to peel for the pies she made for her family. In time she discovered how to make them larger and later incorporated that into her beloved lilac flowers.

Hulda Klager

Hulda Klager

The book is an account of the life of Hulda Klager.  She was a wife, mother and sister, suffering heartbreaking loss on more than one occasion.  Her hobby with her lilacs evolves and eventually explodes making her flowers deeply longed for.   When she orders fifteen lilacs for her garden, she is saddened when only three survive.  However, from those three she developed at least 150 different varieties.

Jane Kirkpatrick

Jane Kirkpatrick

Her path was far from easy and along the way, she often is rebuked and ridiculed by family, neighbors and strangers.  Yet, her passion knows no bounds and flourished.

I enjoyed this novel much more than I ever anticipated.  I was intrigued by Hulda Klager and her drive and ambition.  I even learned a wee bit about lilacs along the way.

Jane Kirkpatrick did a wonderful job of telling Hulda Klager’s story and weaving so many aspects, characters and storylines into an enjoyable narrative.  I was pleasantly surprised by this book I accidentally picked up and had expectation for.

Lilacs

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