The Undaunted : The Miracle Of The Hole-in-the-Rock Pioneers (2009) - Plot & Excerpts
This book really ended up feeling like 3 stories. I liked the last best.I realize it was a long book ( over 700 pages) you have to cut stuff. But the beginning jumped a lot. He was 6 then 13, then 16, then 21. Their story barely touched on their trip to America or to Utah. I liked it a lot better once the time gaps stopped.I felt the "personal story" a little predictable. But I found myself really liking the characters. ( real and made up)I liked how the author didn't take too much liberty with the true story. He obviously did a great deal of research and tried to use real situations, even real quotes as much as possible. I really liked the notes at the end of chapters explaining all that was real and made up. Those notes were a little out of order in places though and sometimes gave away future parts of the story.I loved the history knowledge I gained through reading it though. I have a great respect for pioneers, all that they accomplished, & the faith they showed. This story only increased that.And I did find myself a little disappointed when the book was over.I'd give it 3.5 stars I have a desire to learn even more about the hole-in-the-rock expedition. 1) As a teenager, our family spent so much time at Lake Powell. We hiked up and down the Hole-in-the-rock trail and even camped in Cottonwood Canyon one trip. I still remember what it looked like. It was incredible to think about the pioneers accomplishing this daunting task. As I read the book, I could envision many of the places. 2) My parents grew up near the Blue Mountains in Monticello, Utah. Why had I never put all this together until now? I have so much I am dying to learn!As for the book....Parts of it were so well-written, particularly the beginning story of David Draper working in the coal mines in England. Wow! I couldn't put it down. Other parts, just felt ok and somewhat rushed. I felt like teenagers from today's mormon culture were transported back in time so the dialogue wasn't believable to me.I do have the give Elder Lund credit, though. His research was extensive and very thorough. I learned to enjoy the historical notes at the end of each chapter.
What do You think about The Undaunted : The Miracle Of The Hole-in-the-Rock Pioneers (2009)?
Excellent book, would highly recommend. Very interesting historical fiction.
—Amber
I have family that live in this part of the country, fun read.
—xbunnyzx
A little long. Lund captures people and relationships so well!
—Alex
Brought me to tears. Amazing story based on true events.
—Denise
amazing!!!! can't wait to see the movie!!! :)
—jennaisthebest
