Additionally, the titles of the individual books are drawn from old hymns. Despite this, she still values treating others fairly, doing the right thing, and living by the Golden Rule, even if her values often come across with an attitude of “mama-raised-me-right” banality. There are multiple characters that fit typical negative Christian stereotypes, and Leah is vocal about not seeing much else besides hypocrisy in churchgoers. I found myself wondering if Carson’s trilogy will ultimately be making a greater statement about religion. But the longer she travels disguised as a young man, the more difficult it is for her to ask for help, and the more isolated and lonely she becomes.
Initially Leah decides to conceal her identity for her own safety. Truth, honesty, and the importance of identity are highlighted as well. When they don’t, tragedy strikes and lives are often lost. Trust, friendship, and family are all major themes in “Walk on Earth a Stranger.” Kindness, compassion, and selflessness are also addressed as Leah and those she travels with are all forced to reconcile their own self-interest with the needs of others. Thieves and bandits, harsh elements and changing topography, and sickness and disease weaken and shrink the wagon train. But from the time she leaves Georgia, Leah’s journey westward is fraught with danger. They plan to join a wagon train, head to California, and make their fortune before Leah’s would-be captor finds her. There she hopes to reconnect with her best friend, Jefferson, who has run from his troubled home life. When their killer then attempts to kidnap Leah, to take her to California and exploit her powers, she is forced to run for her life.ĭisguised as a boy, Leah heads for Independence, Missouri. While she understands the importance of such secrecy, the true gravity of her circumstances becomes tragically clear when her parents are murdered. Leah’s parents instructed her never to tell anyone what she can do. Leah possesses a secret power: Much like a water diviner, she is able to detect the presence of gold, whether it’s buried below her feet or in the pockets of those around her. But a strong work ethic and uncommon maturity are not the only characteristics that set her apart. The pragmatic and resourceful daughter of gold prospectors, Leah has managed to become a skilled hunter and capable farmer, all while going to school. The novel opens in rural Georgia at the onset of the California gold rush in 1849 and introduces us to 15-year-old Leah Westfall. History, magic, and adventure come together in “ Walk on Earth a Stranger,” the first installment in The Gold Seer Trilogy by Rae Carson.
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