The Orchard: A Memoir

The Orchard is a memoir of a young, single woman's struggle to save her family's New England apple farm during the Great Depression. It tells the story of Adele "Kitty" Robertson, who was unprepared by her Radcliffe education for the rigors of apple farming. Despite the challenges, she revives the old orchard with the help of neighbors and hired workers. The memoir is a celebration of decency and beauty in the midst of poverty.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 280 pages
Publication date: 09 November 2023
Publisher: David R. Godine Publisher Inc

The Orchard is a captivating memoir that delves into the arduous journey of a young, single woman as she valiantly battles to preserve her family's New England apple farm during the devastating era of the Great Depression. Discovered by the author's daughter after her passing, the book unveils the remarkable story of Adele "Kitty" Robertson, a young and vibrant individual, yet ill-equipped by her Radcliffe education for the challenges of apple farming in the harsh years of the early 1930s. Situated alone at the end of a country road, with only a Great Dane as her companion, Kitty faces a relentless onslaught of debts, broken machinery, and devastating frosts. Despite these formidable obstacles, she courageously revives the old orchard, a testament to her unwavering determination and resilience. Each day presents a grueling struggle, yet Kitty is continually rewarded by the breathtaking beauty of the world and the unexpected generosity of neighbors and hired workers.

Driven by a quiet courage and a profound sense of goodness, The Orchard emerges as a profoundly moving celebration of decency and beauty amidst the bleakest of prospects and relentless poverty. In addition to a foreword and epilogue penned by Betsy Robertson Cramer, the author's daughter, this Nonpareil edition features a new afterword by acclaimed author Jane Brox. Through her poignant narrative, Kitty emerges as a remarkable heroine, a symbol of resilience and hope in the face of adversity.

Dimension: 191 x 133 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781567927269