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Where Courage Began: Velma's Story
A blizzard rages outside a ramshackle Iowa farmhouse in February of 1921. Five-year-old Velma and her older sister stand near a glowing Isinglass stove charged with minding their two younger brothers. Velma senses that her father is dying in the nearby living room, and she wonders if her mother can possibly survive the raging snowstorm in her brave effort to get help.
Based on the early life of author G. L. Gooding's mother, Where Courage Began tells the story of Velma, her three siblings, and her widowed mother Alice Steele. Life for the young family in Woodward, Iowa requires courage, tenacity, and ingenuity. Through setbacks, tragedies, and triumphs the Steeles forge a meaningful life in their adopted community during the difficult days leading up to The Great Depression. And it is young Velma, wise beyond her years, who plays a pivotal role in the family's survival.
Verified for local historical accuracy, Where Courage Began shines light on Depression-era communities and their values for God, the land, hard work, family, and friendship. The sweet aroma of Alice Steele's famous cinnamon rolls is one of the most comforting reminders of these traditional values still practiced every day in Dallas County and celebrated annually at the Woodward Friends and Neighbors Celebration.
Based on the early life of author G. L. Gooding's mother, Where Courage Began tells the story of Velma, her three siblings, and her widowed mother Alice Steele. Life for the young family in Woodward, Iowa requires courage, tenacity, and ingenuity. Through setbacks, tragedies, and triumphs the Steeles forge a meaningful life in their adopted community during the difficult days leading up to The Great Depression. And it is young Velma, wise beyond her years, who plays a pivotal role in the family's survival.
Verified for local historical accuracy, Where Courage Began shines light on Depression-era communities and their values for God, the land, hard work, family, and friendship. The sweet aroma of Alice Steele's famous cinnamon rolls is one of the most comforting reminders of these traditional values still practiced every day in Dallas County and celebrated annually at the Woodward Friends and Neighbors Celebration.
325 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 10, 2021
841 people are currently reading
303 people want to read
About the author
G.L. Gooding
10 books13 followersAmerican novelist G. L. Gooding is the author of five novels that have warmed the hearts of audiences around the globe.
Met with glowing industry reviews, Fresh Snow on Bedford Falls is the award-winning historical mystery that picks up where the classic film It’s a Wonderful Life ends. Available in paperback, e-book, and a separate large-print edition, the novel is now available as an incredible audiobook narrated by industry legend George Guidall. Fresh Snow on Bedford Falls shares new layers of suspense, history, revelation, and redemption as a determined bank examiner pursues the truth about George Bailey, Mr. Potter, and the money that Uncle Billy failed to deposit that fateful day.
Gooding's second book Yellum shines the spotlight on the challenging life of a special donkey with a divine purpose. Lost and alone in the world, the orphaned beast of burden must overcome hardships and disillusionment before he ultimately discovers that every single creature on Earth matters--especially him--the donkey chosen to carry the pregnant Mary to Bethlehem for the birth of the Christ Child.
His third book Murder in Minnesota launches the Wandering Woodie Mystery series about a young veteran who returns home from the Vietnam War in the early 1970s and strikes out on a cross-country adventure with his friends, driving a recently restored 1946 Ford Woodie that pulls a teardrop trailer behind. When the vintage vehicle breaks down in Minnesota, mystery and mayhem begin as the friends discover how a string of local murders are linked to the area’s tragic past.
Gooding's tribute to his mother's courageous life is chronicled in the novels Where Courage Began and Road to Resilience. These novels recount the stories of family and friendship and shed light on depression-era communities in rural America.
Gooding and his wife, Sarah, live in Chagrin Falls, Ohio. Gooding is at work on the next adventure in his Wandering Woodie Mystery series as well as the next chapter of historical series Velma's Story.
Met with glowing industry reviews, Fresh Snow on Bedford Falls is the award-winning historical mystery that picks up where the classic film It’s a Wonderful Life ends. Available in paperback, e-book, and a separate large-print edition, the novel is now available as an incredible audiobook narrated by industry legend George Guidall. Fresh Snow on Bedford Falls shares new layers of suspense, history, revelation, and redemption as a determined bank examiner pursues the truth about George Bailey, Mr. Potter, and the money that Uncle Billy failed to deposit that fateful day.
Gooding's second book Yellum shines the spotlight on the challenging life of a special donkey with a divine purpose. Lost and alone in the world, the orphaned beast of burden must overcome hardships and disillusionment before he ultimately discovers that every single creature on Earth matters--especially him--the donkey chosen to carry the pregnant Mary to Bethlehem for the birth of the Christ Child.
His third book Murder in Minnesota launches the Wandering Woodie Mystery series about a young veteran who returns home from the Vietnam War in the early 1970s and strikes out on a cross-country adventure with his friends, driving a recently restored 1946 Ford Woodie that pulls a teardrop trailer behind. When the vintage vehicle breaks down in Minnesota, mystery and mayhem begin as the friends discover how a string of local murders are linked to the area’s tragic past.
Gooding's tribute to his mother's courageous life is chronicled in the novels Where Courage Began and Road to Resilience. These novels recount the stories of family and friendship and shed light on depression-era communities in rural America.
Gooding and his wife, Sarah, live in Chagrin Falls, Ohio. Gooding is at work on the next adventure in his Wandering Woodie Mystery series as well as the next chapter of historical series Velma's Story.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
April 5, 2024
G.L. Gooding has crafted a sweet, warm and slightly old fashioned story based on his family history. An Iowa farm family is thrown into unexpected turmoil upon the unexpected death of the father. The two oldest children, both girls, take on increased responsibility to help their mother as she becomes the primary breadwinner. The author offers a glimpse of small town life in our country during theb1920's. Lovely. Highly recommended.
January 28, 2024
Enjoyed every word of this book even though it isn't great literature. Big thank you to the author for sharing this story.
March 12, 2024
Enjoyed discovering the grit and determination of families in this difficult time of our nation's history. The characterization and dialog of the characters made this a heartwarming read.
March 26, 2023
A Story of Survival in the 1920's
The author chose to honor his mother with this the first of a two book series somewhat about his mother's life,but fictional as well.
The story tells of a young mother being left widowed at a very young age with four small children.
She was a Methodist & married a Catholic so both sets of parents basically disowned them.
The man's father,owned the farm,they lived on & although they paid rent,when he died,she was told to move.
She found them an apartment in a near by town & did many jobs to support her family.Life was very hard,but they were welcomed by many good people in their new lives.
So far,the story has been Interesting & the characters are interesting as well.,
The author chose to honor his mother with this the first of a two book series somewhat about his mother's life,but fictional as well.
The story tells of a young mother being left widowed at a very young age with four small children.
She was a Methodist & married a Catholic so both sets of parents basically disowned them.
The man's father,owned the farm,they lived on & although they paid rent,when he died,she was told to move.
She found them an apartment in a near by town & did many jobs to support her family.Life was very hard,but they were welcomed by many good people in their new lives.
So far,the story has been Interesting & the characters are interesting as well.,
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 25, 2025
I love historical fiction based on history and was excited to begin this tale of early American history in rural Iowa. The author shares the stories told to him about his mother and her siblings. Life was hard, but the story drew me in as the widow and her children left the farm and began a new life in the town of Woodward.
Velma is the middle child and was a delightful, insightful child. From the long hours of work to the excitement of the classroom, the author captured their daily life and the community of friends they built for themselves during a difficult time in American history.
The author touched on issues from racism, to the hatred between religion, but also shed light on community, acceptance, pride, healing and friendship through the eyes of a precocious five-year-old as she grows up in the small-town. I loved the family and Velma’s mom, who worked tirelessly to provide for her for children. The secondary characters from the general merchants to the school teacher added to the tale and provided romance, friendship, and more.
I quickly devoured their story and look forward to the next audiobook, The Road to Resilience. This is a three-book series that chronicles her life. Narrated by Kate Wisniewski, the audiobook enhanced the story and brought the story to life. I highly recommend listening. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
Velma is the middle child and was a delightful, insightful child. From the long hours of work to the excitement of the classroom, the author captured their daily life and the community of friends they built for themselves during a difficult time in American history.
The author touched on issues from racism, to the hatred between religion, but also shed light on community, acceptance, pride, healing and friendship through the eyes of a precocious five-year-old as she grows up in the small-town. I loved the family and Velma’s mom, who worked tirelessly to provide for her for children. The secondary characters from the general merchants to the school teacher added to the tale and provided romance, friendship, and more.
I quickly devoured their story and look forward to the next audiobook, The Road to Resilience. This is a three-book series that chronicles her life. Narrated by Kate Wisniewski, the audiobook enhanced the story and brought the story to life. I highly recommend listening. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
February 24, 2023
I really enjoyed this book. It is based on memories the author's 100 year old mother shared with him. The only difficulty I had with the book was reconciling the age of Velma (5-8) with the astuteness she portrayed in analyzing situations. I am not sure that she would have had enough life experiences to analyze things the way she did. In my mind she was always an astute twelve year old. Other that than, I highly recommend this book. I am looking forward to reading the sequel.
February 19, 2024
I gave this 3 stars because while the story line is good, the language used wasn’t realistic for the time period of the story. I found myself concentrating on all the words being used that were modern day vocabulary and would not have been used in 1923.
January 20, 2024
The story line is based on memories of the author’s grandmother and that part is quite interesting. The writing however is slow and tedious.
April 24, 2024
This is a novel based on the true story of the author's mother and her childhood. Born just before the Great Depression, life was tough and money was scarce for Velma's family. To make it worse, her daddy contracts something and dies in their home while mama was out in a blinding snowstorm trying to get help, Mama was now the only provider for the four children: Wilma, Velma, Eugene and Edward. Her in-laws can't stand her and refuse to help. They were never in favor of the marriage between their son, William and Alice. Fortunately, her husband's family had given them the land so they still had a roof over their head. Mama made dinners work by the odd jobs she did to earn money and the eggs from the chickens they kept. She knew it was too good to be true though. Not long after her in-laws picked up the body of their son, her father-in-law told her they were taking the land back.
This starts Velma's adventure moving to a new town where they know no one and aren't even sure that mama can find work there. It is in this town, though, that Velma's mama stands as a hero for keeping her family together. It wasn't an easy life by any means, but surrounded by new friends, Alice and her family make ends meet.
There are quite a few typos in the book. That may only be distracting to me though. The story moves a little slow at a couple places, but overall I would recommend this book, especially if you're interested in novels set in the 1920's.
This starts Velma's adventure moving to a new town where they know no one and aren't even sure that mama can find work there. It is in this town, though, that Velma's mama stands as a hero for keeping her family together. It wasn't an easy life by any means, but surrounded by new friends, Alice and her family make ends meet.
There are quite a few typos in the book. That may only be distracting to me though. The story moves a little slow at a couple places, but overall I would recommend this book, especially if you're interested in novels set in the 1920's.
May 26, 2024
I think I needed a change as I have been reading historical WWII novels for a while. This is also a historical novel but taking place in Iowa pre-depression in 1921. A family that had little on a farm, a mother that becomes a widow with 3 children on one on the way, loses their place to live due to her in-laws who never cared for her or the kids because of her religion. It is a story of true resilience through very difficult times, little money but determination by Alice the widow. Her daughters are heavily dependent upon helping with chores, watching the younger brother and later 2 brothers while trying to find a place to live. In Woodward Alice befriends a community of people willing to help and Velma her 2nd daughter, wise beyond her 5 years plays a pivotal part in the family’s survival. Though those times were extremely tough, it gives you a good feeling how much human kindness can make sure a difference. Great read!
January 29, 2024
When Alice (a Protestant) married William (Catholic), they were abandoned by their families and churches, even after four children were born. When William dies, his family forced Alice and the children off the farm. She moved into the town of Woodward, Iowa, during the 1920s when farm prices are depressed, making it hard to make a living. Thanks to folks with open hearts and Christian charity, and to a lot of hard work by Alice and her older daughters, they make a go of it. There are unanswered side stories, which hopefully will be wrapped up in the next Velma book, including a threat by Alice's inlaws to take the children. The story, based on the memories of the author's mother, especially develops young daughter Velma's character and personality.
December 23, 2024
unsure but hopeful
I enjoy reading history of people who lived in this time era and was looking forward to the story. As I found the story, an interesting one, I was disappointed in the writing, particularly in the way, the author writes the speech and communication of six and seven-year-old girls. I found their communication and language was more suited to someone in their teens and 20s, not six and seven years old. That was a little frustrating for me. I skipped through a lot of pages because of that. The story seemed interesting, but mostly I just continue to read through it to see if it would become better written. I found it lacking.
I enjoy reading history of people who lived in this time era and was looking forward to the story. As I found the story, an interesting one, I was disappointed in the writing, particularly in the way, the author writes the speech and communication of six and seven-year-old girls. I found their communication and language was more suited to someone in their teens and 20s, not six and seven years old. That was a little frustrating for me. I skipped through a lot of pages because of that. The story seemed interesting, but mostly I just continue to read through it to see if it would become better written. I found it lacking.
July 5, 2025
fA childs story.
Reading the summary of this book made it interesting but then I started reading it. It never held my attention nor did I ever have that can’t wait to get back to reading feeling . Honestly, I skipped a majority of it. There are sequels so the book abruptly ended. The span of the story was over a 5 year period. Truly, it’s a children’s story, maybe early teens. Therefore, take my evaluation with a grain of salt. I’m a senior citizen and the story was written on a juvenile level. Good day.
Reading the summary of this book made it interesting but then I started reading it. It never held my attention nor did I ever have that can’t wait to get back to reading feeling . Honestly, I skipped a majority of it. There are sequels so the book abruptly ended. The span of the story was over a 5 year period. Truly, it’s a children’s story, maybe early teens. Therefore, take my evaluation with a grain of salt. I’m a senior citizen and the story was written on a juvenile level. Good day.
December 9, 2023
Rich in emotional energy!
The Steele family and all others in the town of Woodford reminded me of the differences in people and their emotions. Sometimes the smallest of humans have more perception than adults. The community of characters were given excellent rolls by this author. Although there were some clear editing issues in the book. The story was charming. Feels good to feel good when reading a book.
The Steele family and all others in the town of Woodford reminded me of the differences in people and their emotions. Sometimes the smallest of humans have more perception than adults. The community of characters were given excellent rolls by this author. Although there were some clear editing issues in the book. The story was charming. Feels good to feel good when reading a book.
December 26, 2023
A lot...
This book was interesting. Idk..... I couldn't put down because there Che so many unanswered questions? Like, whatever happened with the dad family wanting the boys? Although I loved Velma she
Seemed so old 1 she was only seven! She said & did things that were just s0 much older! IT was so much to do & life was so much for the kids todo but there was Times thatthat I forgot Velma was only seven !i
Have so many questions- I can't give this five
Stars because of that!
This book was interesting. Idk..... I couldn't put down because there Che so many unanswered questions? Like, whatever happened with the dad family wanting the boys? Although I loved Velma she
Seemed so old 1 she was only seven! She said & did things that were just s0 much older! IT was so much to do & life was so much for the kids todo but there was Times thatthat I forgot Velma was only seven !i
Have so many questions- I can't give this five
Stars because of that!
March 28, 2024
Goodness and Courage
This book tells a wonderful story dealing with the time our country was facing such difficult times in the1920's. It's a story of a mother's love even in times that required strong discipline. It also tells how a family working together can accomplish great things. If you're looking for something good to read, I highly recommend this book.
This book tells a wonderful story dealing with the time our country was facing such difficult times in the1920's. It's a story of a mother's love even in times that required strong discipline. It also tells how a family working together can accomplish great things. If you're looking for something good to read, I highly recommend this book.
April 30, 2024
Having Lived Near Woodward This Was Like Returning Home
Excellent story telling, and very accurate concerning the era and the area. My mother’s sister was married to one of the Tomlin’s, who had lost their farm, which was mentioned in the book. I was a bit biased, but I couldn’t put the book down. Looking forward to the next book.
Excellent story telling, and very accurate concerning the era and the area. My mother’s sister was married to one of the Tomlin’s, who had lost their farm, which was mentioned in the book. I was a bit biased, but I couldn’t put the book down. Looking forward to the next book.
January 26, 2026
good story
A good read, very descriptive characters and a very detailed look at the times. It’s hard to imagine in this day and time what people in the early part of the century actually went through. The only thing that I found disappointing was the ending it kinda left you hanging so hopefully there’s more to Velma’s story.
A good read, very descriptive characters and a very detailed look at the times. It’s hard to imagine in this day and time what people in the early part of the century actually went through. The only thing that I found disappointing was the ending it kinda left you hanging so hopefully there’s more to Velma’s story.
February 23, 2024
Story of pioneer strength & faith
I enjoyed this little story of a young woman’s strength, fortitude & faith in the face of great odds. It teaches that all can defy odds with patient endurance, faith and using the gifts God gave each of us to use to serve others.
I enjoyed this little story of a young woman’s strength, fortitude & faith in the face of great odds. It teaches that all can defy odds with patient endurance, faith and using the gifts God gave each of us to use to serve others.
March 16, 2024
Velma
I liked this book,but,It sure seemed like Velma did alot of chores and things that I don't think a five year old would be capable of doing.She seemed very mature, and I don't know if she was big for her age.I suppose she did what she had to do,even for a child.
I liked this book,but,It sure seemed like Velma did alot of chores and things that I don't think a five year old would be capable of doing.She seemed very mature, and I don't know if she was big for her age.I suppose she did what she had to do,even for a child.
May 8, 2024
Neighborly Love!
Early American life after the war was very difficult to support a family! It was the help and support of the neighbors and friends. The contribution of help and food that provided the necessary
Early American life after the war was very difficult to support a family! It was the help and support of the neighbors and friends. The contribution of help and food that provided the necessary
November 14, 2025
A FAMILY FIGHTS FOR SURVIVAL
This quick read is a story about a family’s fight for survival. The Steele family fights to make a life for themselves after the father dies. They move to a new community and the mother finds ways to support her family
This quick read is a story about a family’s fight for survival. The Steele family fights to make a life for themselves after the father dies. They move to a new community and the mother finds ways to support her family
January 10, 2024
Historical
Was historically correct, could feel the despair and the winning moments thru the eyes of adults and the children. Was a good read
Was historically correct, could feel the despair and the winning moments thru the eyes of adults and the children. Was a good read
January 17, 2024
A Great Read
I enjoyed this book very much. I didn’t want to put it down. I am anxious to read more of Mr. Gooding’s books.
I enjoyed this book very much. I didn’t want to put it down. I am anxious to read more of Mr. Gooding’s books.
February 8, 2024
Loved this read. Reminder of my own grandmothers and their journeys. Also quite familiar with the area in Iowa. Looking forward to the next.
February 21, 2024
A wholesome book based somewhat on the author’s mother’s life. It’s simply written and was easy for me to breeze through it.
February 23, 2024
A very heartwarming story.
A story filed with a great deal of compassion and understanding for anyone who had troubles or fell on hard times. Very enjoyable reading.
A story filed with a great deal of compassion and understanding for anyone who had troubles or fell on hard times. Very enjoyable reading.
March 18, 2024
Nice story
I liked the story. The characters were well described. However I felt it ended a bit abruptly. Just suddenly over
I liked the story. The characters were well described. However I felt it ended a bit abruptly. Just suddenly over
May 5, 2024
I really enjoyed both of these books. Happy I read them.
May 12, 2024
The book was just ok. It’s not a page turner. Nothing exciting ever happened. It’s about a little girl life growing up.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews