This first book by Owen, an author and former elementary school teacher, chronicles the lives of 13 former Kittitas country school teachers who worked in remote locations between 1914 and 1942. The author recounts the stories of one-room schoolhouses and the duties of the new teachers: janitor, fire builder, cook, and water hauler--in addition to teaching. The stories include both the ordeals of teaching in rural environments, the dedication and courage of the teachers, and the rewards of their occupation. Annotation ©2009 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)