Finding Strength

School Resources

Young Adult Historical Fiction Set in Turn-of-the-Century America

Finding Strength

School Resources

During the Panic of 1893

Young Adult Historical Fiction Set in 1890s America

Finding Strength is a young adult historical novel set during the Panic of 1893, a period of profound economic and social upheaval that permanently changed life for farmers, laborers, and everyday Americans.

These resources support discussion-based learning for homeschool families, private schools, and classrooms, with optional writing and reflection.

Recommended Ages

  • Ages 12–16 (Young Adult)

  • Middle school through early high school

  • Independent reading or guided discussion

Historical Setting & Context

Set against the backdrop of the Panic of 1893, the novel offers insight into:

  • Widespread financial collapse and unemployment

  • Changing agricultural life and rural hardship

  • Shifts in labor, banking, and opportunity

  • The vulnerability of small farms and working families

  • How national crises affected everyday lives

This historical moment shapes every decision Emeline must make and provides rich opportunities for cross-curricular study.

Story Overview (For Educators)

Several years after her father’s death, Emeline has settled into life in Indianapolis. When she is urgently called back to her childhood farm in Missouri, she discovers the situation is far worse than she imagined. The farm manager has died, the caretakers are leaving, and the nation is in economic crisis.

Suddenly responsible for land, animals, and livelihoods far beyond her experience, Emeline must learn to lead in a time of uncertainty. With the help of trusted allies, she works to rebuild—until disaster forces her to begin again.

Her greatest challenge is internal: learning to trust her judgment and find strength within herself during a time when nothing feels secure.

Learning Themes & Focus Areas

Finding Strength supports discussion around:

  • Responsibility during crisis

  • Perseverance after failure

  • Leadership and decision-making

  • Confidence built through experience

  • Community support in hard times

  • The impact of national events on individuals

Ways Schools & Families Use This Book

  • Middle school and early high school literature studies

  • Homeschool reading lists

  • Book clubs and discussion groups

  • U.S. history tie-ins (1890s America)

  • Character education and resilience studies

Discussion Questions

  1. How does the Panic of 1893 affect Emeline’s situation?

  2. What responsibilities does Emeline face that feel overwhelming?

  3. How does leadership look different during a crisis?

  4. What setbacks test Emeline’s perseverance the most?

  5. How does Emeline redefine strength over the course of the story?

  6. How do community and allies influence her ability to endure?

Writing & Reflection Prompts

  • How does economic hardship change people’s choices?

  • Describe a moment when Emeline must begin again after failure.

  • What does leadership require when resources are limited?

  • Reflect on how confidence is built through responsibility.

Author Visits & School Engagement

Programs may include:

  • Writing historical fiction

  • Exploring the Panic of 1893 through story

  • Character growth during hardship

  • Student-led discussion and questions

🌱 Closing Thought

True strength is often forged in times of uncertainty.