The Land of Lure: A Story of the Columbia River Basin

"The Land of Lure: A Story of the Columbia River Basin" by Elliott Smith is a historical fiction that drops the reader into the tough lives of homesteaders dreaming of a fresh start in the Columbia River Basin at the turn of the century. The story follows Travis Gully, a man who is sparked by the desire for a home of his own, and he leads his family on a pursuit to find their fortune in an unsettled territory. From the beginning, the book paints a stark picture of the rough conditions these families faced, lured by the prospect of owning land, while Travis, a diligent farmer stuck renting, is encouraged to risk everything and claim his own stake after seeing his friends leave for a better life. Readers observe the difficulties and emotional stakes as Travis plans to uproot his family, leave their community, and chase the appealing dream of a better life out West. Travis Gully’s experiences mirror the challenges faced by many who came to the American West seeking prosperity in an untamed land.