All She Left Behind

Kirkpatrick (This Road We Traveled) continues dramatizing real-life events with this successful story of Jennie Lichtenthaler Pickett Parish, who became one of the first doctors in Portland, Ore., in the late 19th century. Jennie’s life of pain, probable dyslexia, determined perseverance, and strong faith is brought to life in this well-researched tale. The narrative covers her early marriage and divorce before she develops a love for (and eventual career in) herbal medicine. A second section details her remarriage and delves further into her lifelong interest in addictions and women’s health. She married Charles Pickett, whose addition to alcohol (later inherited by their son) prompted him to divorce Jennie. Jennie eventually found happiness with the much older Josiah Parish and their two daughters. Jennie’s decision to pursue medical school and her dedication to helping others will inspire readers to consider their own dreams. Kirkpatrick is wonderful with historical detail and recreating the life of this inspiring woman and other female doctors of that period. Agent: Joyce Hart, Hartline Literary Agency. (Sept.)