Starr, of the Desert

A novel written during the early 20th century, specifically in the year 1917. This work unfolds amidst a backdrop of the American Southwest, focusing on themes of family, health, and the harsh realities of frontier life. The primary character, Peter Stevenson, is a modest druggist who grapples with the impending illness of his daughter, Helen May, and the challenges presented by their impoverished circumstances. The opening of the novel centers on Peter as he navigates his day-to-day life while struggling with the weight of responsibility towards his daughter’s health and well-being. As Peter reflects on their living situation and considers a move that could improve Helen May's condition, the narrative highlights his sense of helplessness, juxtaposed with his deep love for his family. His encounters with the doctor reveal the urgent need for a radical change in their environment to protect Helen May from the same fate as her mother’s illness. This opening sets the stage for the family's journey into a challenging new life in the desert, filled with both hope and uncertainty.