More Than Grit is a historical Middle Grade book inspired by the true story of a farm family in rural Kansas in 1939, when making do means going without and an egg is worth two cents.
Sissy ignores rumors that Old Man Morton is dangerous and wrangles a secret business deal with the Great War veteran. She will help with his farm chores in exchange for eggs, which she’ll sell. She’s desperate to earn five dollars so her farm family’s home can be wired for electricity. She pushes limits, nearly causing Old Man’s death in a blizzard, but her determination and hard work don’t matter. The electric company refuses to put up poles, and Sissy’s dream for electricity shatters. Through Old Man’s grizzled hardness, a bully, and the betrayal of a best friend, Sissy discovers friendship often requires sacrifice, and when her grit fails, grace begins.