The Life and Times of Ruth Dagmar: Volume 1, Prewar Years (1935 1938)

Ruth Birk came of age as portents of the next great war were broadcast over the radio. Though she experienced hardships, helping keep the family farm afloat when her father died and her brothers couldn't be depended on, she didn't give up on her future. Ruth dreamed of a life where she wasn't tied to the place she'd grown up. After much soul searching, she dreamed of spending her life with Ray Knoff, despite his parents' disapproval.As she faced the challenges that the Depression presented to rural North Dakota, Ruth found reasons to keep smiling: parties to attend, neighbors who supported each other in times of adversity, and -- surprise! -- a baby on the way. In turns somber and sweet, volume 1 of The Life and Times of Ruth Dagmar gives us a rare glimpse into a unique time and place, filtered through the eyes of those who were there.