Sad Papaw’s: Heritage

Kenny Harmon digs into his family’s history in Sad Papaw’s Heritage, describing what life was like for each generation and how they multiplied and moved to different states, including Oklahoma. The book captures the reader with brief stories from various periods as well as the families’ challenges and achievements. It depicts their experiences over several historical eras, ranging from the 1600s to the 1900s, from battle wounds to church duties, farming work, natural disasters, schooling, dating, traveling, and suspense-filled births.

What a fascinating journey through time. The book’s rich descriptions make visualizing history a pleasant experience. It was fascinating to picture Peter and Mary traveling across the Wild West on a wagon with cows and their children, unsure if they would survive the heat and terrible circumstances. There was no Google Maps or YouTube to watch vlogs about the new areas.

Kenny writes matter-of-factly and goes right to the heart of his narrative, showing the important characters and their major activities. The book is well-organized and includes key dates, ages, names, and events. Expect to encounter numerous interesting people, like Mathias Harman, who was characterized as being little more than five feet and proven to be a deadly shot with his time’s long rifle.

The children in some of the book’s historical periods did not have iPads or computer games. They made up for it, though, with the entertaining games they invented and played. Thankfully, the book includes detailed instructions on how to play these games, such as Duck on the Rock and Prisoner’s Base. Harmon also gives recipes for foods like old-fashioned peanut butter cookies and Yorkshire pudding. Other features of the book that make it a memorable experience include poignant poetry and well-preserved images.

Reading Sad Papaw’s Heritage made me appreciate today’s higher level of safety, equality, and tolerance. It’s difficult to picture a time in America when families did not believe it was vital for girls to attend school. The novel is ideal for those who enjoy historical fiction for its nostalgic value and the brief escape it provides. However, some readers may find the violent sequences including shootings and fatal clashes between Whites and Indians upsetting.

History, no matter how imperfect it is by current standards, always has a tale to tell. In fact, its flaws and idiosyncrasies make it more distinct and unforgettable. Kenny Harmon’s thorough records about his family ancestry dig deep into the sands of time to bury their unique, unforgettable stories. It was an evocative, heart-racing, and enlightening experience.