The extreme poverty of Appalachia carried an attitude of just doing enough to stay alive. One girl, Clara, wanted to lift herself into education, new ways of thinking and progress, rather than stagnation. This book follows her through hardship, determination, and doing what others did not dare. Although she paid heavy prices for her growth, she accomplished what she set out to do and gave her offspring opportunities that she never dreamed of. Her courage to keep going is inspirational and satisfying.