The Thorn in the Nest

"The Thorn in the Nest" by Martha Finley is a story that takes place in the late 1700s. It is about Kenneth Clendenin, a new doctor who is getting ready to travel to the Northwestern Territory, which would eventually became Ohio. The book tells about how strong families can be, being brave, and the difficulties of living as a pioneer, especially looking at Kenneth's connections with his family, like his mom and little sister, Marian. We meet Kenneth right after he finishes a big part of his doctor training. The first part of the book paints a clear picture of his home and family, showing how much they love each other and the sadness they feel because he's about to leave to become a doctor. The things Kenneth says and does with his mom and sister show how close they are, but also how hard it will be for them when he goes away. It is a story of a new world, the troubles he will face at work and in his personal life,and his journey to build something in a brand-new place.