Jane Kirkpatrick

In Jane Kirkpatrick's "Rivers to Cross," the Stevens-Murphy company sets out from Missouri two years after the Donner Party, aiming to be the first wagons to reach California via the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Initially, their journey is safe, but a severe October snowstorm forces the group to split into three directions, each path fraught with the risk of losing loved ones. As they navigate the harsh landscape, the members confront the reality that adversity can either destroy them or redefine their lives. The narrative explores themes of fear and courage, emphasizing the vital roles of family and friendship in overcoming challenges.