Bookshelf: The Prairie Girl’s Guide to Life

Way back when I was still in college, a hefty 7 months ago, we (that is, the ladies of the fibers department) were generally united on the fact that we behaved sort of like, and had similar interests to, those who worked the homestead. Quilting, sewing, crafting, cooking (not so much of this for me), baking, knitting, and gardening (also not so much of this for me) were among our many varied interests.

Makes sense right? The fibers department was full of girls who liked to bake and make things. Cute aprons abound! Cookies galore. We worship Martha Stewart, who, let’s face it, is basically a millionaire prairie girl who built an entire empire on the fine art of homesteading.

Laura Ingells Wilder probably would’ve been a fibers major.

Anyways, on one of my random Amazon quests, I came across this little gem:

That’s right, this book covers all the intricacies of prairie life, specifically for girls.

The book is broken down into sections: The Kitchen, The Bathroom, The Bedroom, The Parlor and The Barn and Beyond.  Each chapter includes lessons, facts about prairie life, history and recipes. All chapters include references on how all this relates to the “Modern Prairie Girl”. There is Prairie vernacular throughout – example: “pull foot” means, to leave in a hurry.

Selected lessons and How To’s offered in this book:

How to Brine, Truss and Roast a Turkey

Host a Tea Party

Mix a Rosewater Spritzer

Make a variety of different Poultices

Make Soap

Make a Braided Rug

How to Make and Use Rag Curlers for your hair

How to Darn a Sock

How to Make a Quilt Sampler

Letter Writing instructions

Learn to Waltz

How to Pan for Gold

How to Spin Yarn

How to Lay a Fire

I can’t mention them all here, you will have to get yourself a copy of the book.

I think all of us who make things by hand have an appreciation and interest in the old world charm of the homestead. I think you will find this book to be delightful and also educational.

Shouldn’t take long before you start talking, hosting and cooking like a prairie girl.