January is bringing arctic temperatures to western Wisconsin, which always makes me think of Laura Ingalls Wilder and her novel (my favorite) The Long Winter. It’s a survival story: Laura’s family, and the entire town of De Smet in Dakota territory, nearly starved and froze to death. Trains couldn’t get through the snow and ice to deliver supplies.

On February 6, I’m leading a multi-age book club featuring The Long Winter at the Hudson Library. Space is limited, so sign up soon!

Meanwhile, here’s a look at why those trains never made it. Fun times!

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