The Four Winds- Kristin Hannah

“It wasn’t the fear that mattered in life. It was the choices made when you were afraid. You were brave because of your fear, not in spite of it.” 

The Four Winds is yet another perfect, shining example as to why I love historical fiction. The unsung heroes. The warriors. The impossibly dark times and monumental losses. In these stories, we are given sparks of hope. It is through narratives of such diabolical times, such as The Great Depression, that I’ve been able to keep my head above water during the coronavirus pandemic. These stories, while utterly heart wrenching, show us that somehow, someway, we endure. It is not without great sacrifice and it is not without being forever changed, but nevertheless, we endure.  

I know I am veering off what should be a review of this paramount book but these are the lessons I’m taking away with me.

 Love withstands all. It withstands distance and time. It endures separation and loss. Love conquers all evil, be it environmental destruction, racism, classism... 

In this story, we are shown that when in fear, Americans look to blame the outsiders. That is what is unfortunately happening now. The violence against the Asian community is appalling and simply shows ignorance and cowardice.

We have gone almost a year without being able to hold our loved ones. We will endure. We have senselessly lost lives that , no, we won’t be able to get over. But the love we have for those people will surpass time and their loss will yield reformation. 

“...my love for you will outlive me.”

It is my hope that The Four Winds will bring upon a greater reverence for the warriors of now: the front line workers, the protestors, the parents, the Everyman fighting invisible battles... We see your fight, we see the injustices, and we stand with you, even if some of the world is sadly blind to it. 

This novel is an essential read, in my opinion.