Laura Ingalls Wilder’s A Little House Collection combines the first five Little House novels into one handy volume, a practical move appropriate to the thrifty, pioneering spirit of the stories themselves. No corners have been cut, however: The books are unabridged and, I am pleased to report, accompanied by Garth Williams’ classic 1953 illustrations in full color. Little House wouldn’t be the same without Williams’ renderings. Theoretically, the books are for readers aged eight to 12, but my own child enjoyed listening to them far earlier, and I enjoyed reading them far later. (And may I suggest the books are not for girls only? Ms. Wilder’s childhood adventures are hardy enough to transcend outmoded gender expectations by now.)
Valiant Women is a vital and engrossing attempt to correct the record and rightfully celebrate the achievements of female veterans of World War II.
