Draft #1

I know it’s been a while since I’ve posted anything, but I’ve been pretty busy. The end of school was filled with more activities than I expected. Also, I spent a great deal of time finishing the first draft of my historical fiction novel based on my hometown.

Last summer, I visited my hometown of Worland, Wyoming, to do some research. I put together an outline and then started writing a draft. It took a few months, but I have finally completed it.

The story is set in the early 1900s, when my hometown had its beginnings. It follows two families who have moved from different parts of Missouri to start farming. The Pences and the Flemings are from two distinct socio-economic levels. Agriculture is a much more difficult and serious business than either family is used to, so they form a quick alliance. Throughout various trials and tribulations of this new frontier, the bond between them strengthens as they have to admit that they can’t survive by themselves. The barriers that would have existed previously lives are torn down, while the families face turbulent hardships. Faith in each other and in their community is the only way that they will thrive in this rugged and unforgiving desert valley.

I had a lot of fun writing this story. There were so many things that I didn’t know about where I grew up. I hope that I can not only show my hometown the strong and gritty roots that grew it, but also tell the world that community and unity are vital for our society to thrive.