Update as of May 10, 2024 – The 1864 Diary of Mrs. Sarah Jane Rousseau did not place as a finalist or winner of the 108th Pulitzer Prizes. Her diary continues to receive positive feedback and accolades, however, from professional reviewers, prestigious organizations and historians and educators. To learn more and read some of those reviews, click here.
On Molony’s Inspiration to Publish This Family Heirloom
The 1864 Diary of Mrs. Sarah Jane Rousseau has been passed down through the author/editor’s family for six generations and has never before been published in its full, unaltered state. When learning about this heirloom, the author/editor was struck by the immense value that has never before been attributed to this literary treasure. The voice of a forty-nine-year-old Londoner who came to America in the 1830s, pioneered a homestead in an unincorporated forest of Iowa, then abandoned all comforts again to pursue her only hope for a medical cure is priceless.
Sarah Rousseau’s diary shares the voice of an “everyday woman” in a format where she can comment freely on social structures, medical progress, military abuses, Civil War movements, Indian cultures, the powerful control of Mormon leaders, and the desperation of many who travel with her wagon train.
For a sample, please see Molony’s, “A Day In the Life…“
Rousseau’s diary is a critical source document for identifying and interpreting events of the Platte River Raids in Wyoming which have had little to nothing documented on them until recently. It is a valuable resource for studying the evolution of women’s rights and perspectives on disabilities. Sarah serves as an exemplary woman of fortitude, intelligence, and equality.
The author/editor recognizes that this family story will correct many years of misperceptions and will satisfy readers who seek adventure, danger, excitement, romance, and truth.
“Sarah Rousseau speaks boldly for the many women in her wagon train and allows them to co-star in this incredible journey.”
– Janelle Molony, 3rd great-granddaughter and author/editor
About the Pulitzer Prize
The Pulitzer Prizes and Fellowships, established in Columbia University by the will of the first Joseph Pulitzer, are awarded by the University on the recommendation of The Pulitzer Prize Board. The Board meets twice annually. There are 23 categories across journalism, books, drama and music. The Prizes are announced during the Spring.
(Excerpt from the official webpage.)
More:
Read a review of the book in Iowa’s Oskaloosa Herald.
Buy a copy for your school, homeschool, professional research, or personal enjoyment.
How it all began…
Watch author Janelle Molony talk about her initial exploration and excitement for the Rousseau Diary with San Bernardino Historian and Earp family excerpt, Nicholas Cataldo.
What’s Next?
- Read more about the author and descendant, Janelle Molony (click here)
- Contact the author regarding a live or virtual speaking engagement (click here)
- See how Sarah Rousseau’s story fits into the HOT new nonfiction, Emigrant Tales of the Platte River Raids (click here)
