THE SEEDS OF GRACETON

In this final book of the Graceton trilogy, the homesteaders near early Fargo, North Dakota hang onto their desire to found their own village, even as they struggle with heartbreak, hate, anger, disappointment. Their love for one another keeps them strong and hopeful. Graceton revolves around seven homestead families and several Fargoans, several of which are major characters at different points in the story (including the first two books). The Petersen household suffers from lack of a woman's presence but there may be hope in the future. With Kirk Petersen, the Nesslebaums, who are leading the effort to found Graceton, keep a secret from those outside the community. Hazel Kohler, their devoted teacher, wants to have her own school but is worried about outsiders' acceptance of her son. The Porters, a black family who have no land of their own, are well-loved there but wonder if there's a future for them in Graceton. The homesteaders have close friends in Fargo and others there who realize that families, not just bonanza farm laborers, are needed for the country's growth. There are also some businessmen and Government officials who understand this and, for their own reasons, want to help. Will the village of Graceton finally come about and, if so, where will it be and who would live there?