Dust

"Dust" by E. (Emanuel) Haldeman-Julius is a story set on the Kansas prairie, about the Wade family, and particularly their son Martin, who is growing up. The book introduces parents Jacob and Sarah Wade, focusing on their efforts to raise their family while dealing with the results of Jacob's damaged health after he returns home from the war, set against the hard existence of settlers life, with many challenges such as dust and drought. Martin feels the intense weight of his family's expectations as he has to grow up quickly and learn how to balance his own dreams along with responsibility to his family. The story explores themes of strength, responsibility, and the difference between dreams and reality, as the family hopes to create a better life for themselves out on the plains.