Susan Coolidge
In the High Valley
Being the fifth and last volume of the Katy Did series
"In the High Valley" by Susan Coolidge is a novel likely written in the late 19th century. It is the fifth and final volume in the "Katy Did" series, and it continues the story of Imogen Young and her brother, Lionel, as they prepare to relocate from Devon, England, to the High Valley in Colorado, where they will begin a new chapter in their lives. The narrative explores themes of familial duty, cultural differences, and the transition from the familiar comforts of home to the uncertainties of a new environment. At the start of the book, we are introduced to Imogen and Lionel as they embark on a journey that will take them far from their home in England. The siblings discuss their anxieties and expectations about life in America, showcasing Imogen’s reluctance and preconceived notions about American culture. The scene is set with descriptive imagery of their English surroundings, emphasizing Imogen's attachment to her homeland. As they prepare for their departure, the opening chapters establish a contrast between the beautiful Devonshire countryside and the unknown challenges awaiting them in the High Valley, hinting at both the excitement and trepidation that accompanies significant life changes.