Where Lilacs Still Bloom

A Novel

By: Jane Kirkpatrick

Narrated by: Kimberly Farr, Susan Denaker

One woman, an impossible dream, and the faith it took to see it through, inspired by the life of Hulda Klager

German immigrant and farm wife Hulda Klager possesses only an eighth-grade education—and a burning desire to create something beautiful. What begins as a hobby to create an easy-peeling apple for her pies becomes Hulda’s driving purpose: a time-consuming interest in plant hybridization that puts her at odds with family and community, as she challenges the early twentieth-century expectations for a simple housewife.

Through the years, seasonal floods continually threaten to erase her Woodland, Washington garden and a series of family tragedies cause even Hulda to question her focus. In a time of practicality, can one person’s simple gifts of beauty make a difference?

Based on the life of Hulda Klager, Where Lilacs Still Bloom is a story of triumph over an impossible dream and the power of a generous heart.

“Beauty matters… it does. God gave us flowers for a reason. Flowers remind us to put away fear, to stop our rushing and running and worrying about this and that, and for a moment, have a piece of paradise right here on earth.”

Amazing Book!

This book touched my heart. I have been to Hulda Klagers home and gardens a few times as I live here in Washington and drive pass her home many times on my travels to Oregon and California. I have bought a couple Lilac Trees on these visits. I just so happened to come across this book by accident as I love historical novels. I was so surprised to see a book written about a place that I love to visit so much. I knew I had to listen to this book!!. It was fantastic! The narration was perfect. Hulda was an amazing woman. So strong. I wantvto know so much about her now. I highly reccomend this book for audible. Very, very good!

A rare breath of fresh air!

This book was recommended on a gardening podcast I frequently listen to. I finally gave it a try and really enjoyed it. it was engaging and full of life but peaceful to listen to while getting yard work done. It was also motivating to keep working when things failed.
Thank you!

Made me want to find that 12 petal Lilac!

I liked this book very much- truth rang in the chronicles of the tragedies and triumphs of real-person Hulda Klager- but when I tried to look up some of the breeds- especially the breed the author wrote was saved by seeds given away and returned after the last flood, they weren't available. Which takes some of the meaning out of the book. When you have to reassess a work and figure out what facts are true and what aren't- it is deflating. At least for me. I do not mind historical fiction that invents conversations The author could not have overheard, but when you are writing about a subject that continues to this day – as the Klager Lilac Days do- it would've been nice if the flower stories had remained intact.

Interesting local history

I own 3 Klager lilacs, and appreciate them all the more for knowing how they came to be. Wonderful story, Kirkpatrick is one of my favorite authors. Recommend all her books!

A Repeat Read!

I've listened to this book 3 times! It's a simple telling of a lady who pursues her passion despite the challenges. She loves God and people. She is a beautiful example of perseverance and service. One day I will visit the park to experience the Lilacs and flat iron garden. Untill then, who knows how many more times I will re-read this book!