Already the mother of four rambunctious boys, Matilda is pregnant again. With the Dust Bowl raging, her husband's gambling and drinking increases. So does his temper. Matilda fears history will repeat itself. Does she have the gumption to leave her abusive husband before she loses another child?

Based on a true story.

I flattened my apron over my belly. The tiny one kicked, just enough to let me know she'd be a lively one. My sisters claimed it was presumptuous, but I knew I carried a baby girl.

Boys were prevalent in our family and the only ones who thrived. But I desperately wanted a female infant to hold. Wanted her more than anything else in the world. More than running water. More than a slice of cold watermelon on a hot summer day. More than candy from the Galbraith Candy Kitchen in downtown Hollis.

I wanted a daughter, and that was just what I was going to have. Sure as I stand here and the good Lord willing. And if I had anything to do with it, the good Lord would be willing. A baby girl would share my load and understand my heartaches like no son ever could.

But females never fared well in the Ready household.

Never had.