John E. Miller (1) (1945–)

Writing a biography of an icon is difficult. Writing a biography of an icon who created a fictitious autobiography is worse.

I have read four biographies of Laura Ingalls Wilder. Two frankly aren't worth the bother -- one is nothing more than a paraphrase of her books, and the books are known not to be true. They are intended to describe pioneer life, not to tell us exactly how Bessie Wilder, the former Laura Ingalls, grew up.

This book is much more serious. I have heard Miller speak, and he show more has done his best to get behind the "Little House" books. The records for a real biography of Laura don't exist (there are no diaries, and other records are scarce), but Miller has done what he can. And he has brought out the key facts: That Wilder did rewrite her life, and that her daughter Rose Wilder Lane rewrote even that. The resulting books are of course very popular, and some will be rather disappointed to know that they are not "the truth." But this is a book for any true fan of the true Laura. show less

Having read a number of other biographies of Laura Ingalls Wilder, I consider this one to be fairly good though not extraordinary--though to someone who is first finding out about the facts of Laura Ingalls Wilder's life, this book could be shocking or even disturbing. Miller did considerable research as he sets up extensive historical context around Wilder's life, especially her time in South Dakota and Missouri (I should note this book is part of a Missouri Biography series from University show more of Missouri Press). He draws a lot of newspaper and other cultural documents of the time. There are moments when that feels like padding because there is otherwise insufficient material on Wilder. He delves into the important, even controversial, subject of Rose Wilder Lane's role in her mother's Little House books as well.

I should note that this book was published in 1998. For a more current, more extensive biography of Wilder, I advise reading Prairie Fires by Caroline Fraser. show less

Excellent biography of LIW.....so much in her books were altered, switched about or simply left out. Also a great insight into the relationship between her only child, Rose Wilder Lane, and herself. I recommend if you have enjoyed the Little House books.

Pretty good as a quick read, slightly fawning and clearly not out to ruffle any feathers.