The Many Reflections of Miss Jane Deming

J. Anderson Coats's "The Many Reflections of Miss Jane Deming" is a compelling historical fiction novel set in the aftermath of the Civil War. It follows young Jane, who, after losing her father, embarks on a journey with Mr. Mercer's expedition to bring widows and orphans to the Washington Territory. Expecting a new beginning, Jane quickly discovers that life in frontier Seattle is rugged and unpredictable, requiring immense resilience and a strong spirit. This book is perfect for readers aged 9-12 who enjoy immersive historical settings and stories of self-reliance and family bonds, reminiscent of "Little House on the Prairie" but with a distinct, feisty protagonist.

High-spirited young Jane is excited to be part of Mr. Mercer s plan to bring Civil War widows and orphans to Washington Territory but life out west isn t at all what she expected. Washington Territory is just the place for men of broad mind and sturdy constitution and girls too, Jane figures, or Mr. Mercer wouldn t have allowed her to come on his expedition to bring unmarried girls and Civil War widows out west.