The Hired Man by Sandra Dallas was an historical fiction novel that focused on the dust bowl years in Colorado in the 1930s. This was a time when growing and raising food was extremely difficult due to the lack of rain. Many people starved and some left thinking California or other places were going to save them. There were drifters looking for work or at the least food. This is the setting that Martha Helen Kessler lived in; a small town struggling to survive. Her family had a farm and everyone worked hard to make ends meet. Martha Helen and her younger brother walked to school and had dreams for college and the future.
One day a drifter came by, hoping for a meal and instead ended up with a job for food and board. Otis was a good worker and despite how well he worked, as an outsider he was viewed with suspicion. The sandstorms that came were dangerous. The lack of rain and food was dangerous. Into this troubling times, came neighbors who struggled, neighbors that were sick and dying and Martha Helen’s family helped as they could. Then Martha Helen’s best friend was found dead. It is at this point the divisiveness of them vs us came to a head.
The novel while focusing on the past does tease at issues of today with us vs them. Sandra Dallas ability to weave a story and write relatable characters is highlighted in this novel. The Hired Man by Sandra Dallas is an excellent read.
