Mary Ellen Chase Knihy

Set against the backdrop of the Maine coast, this epic narrative spans four generations of a seafaring family, capturing the profound cultural and economic transformations over a century. Through vivid historical detail, readers experience the challenges faced by characters like a young wife embarking on a long trade voyage in 1830 and a seafaring man torn between tradition and opportunity. The author skillfully crafts relatable characters, highlighting their everyday struggles and aspirations, making this 1935 work essential for understanding Maine's maritime heritage.

Set against the backdrop of the Maine coast, this novel chronicles the lives of a family over six decades, beginning in the late nineteenth century. As they navigate the joys and challenges brought by an evolving world and the onset of World War II, their home serves as a sanctuary for nurturing their humanity and spirituality. The story beautifully intertwines personal struggles with the natural beauty of the region, making it a compelling saga of resilience and connection. Windswept achieved national bestseller status and is a highlight of Mary Ellen Chase's literary career.

Valued by academicians and scholars, this book holds significant literary importance and contributes to the knowledge base for future generations. It has been reproduced in its original print format, preserving its authenticity, including any marks or annotations from the first publication. This approach ensures that the book's true nature is maintained and remembered.

Mary Ellen Chase was a prominent American educator and author, recognized as a key literary figure in early twentieth-century New England. She completed her bachelor's degree at the University of Maine and later earned a master's and Ph.D. in English from the University of Minnesota. Her teaching career spanned various locations, including Buck's Harbor, Chicago, and Montana, before she became an assistant professor at the University of Minnesota. Chase taught at Smith College from 1926 until her retirement in 1955, contributing significantly to academia and literature.