The novel’s first protagonist, Edith embodies the spirit of the American Midwest. Edith opens the novel thinking, “[I]f she died right then, she would’ve felt the most important things a Minnesotan, woman or man, can feel at the end of their lives. She’d done what she could, and she was of use. She helped” (2). As a wife, mother, grandmother, and skilled baker, Edith spends most of her life focusing on the needs and comforts of others for little or no pay. Rarely does Edith pursue her own interests; she prides herself on her strong work ethic, showing little desire for wealth or luxury. She consistently feels thankful for what little she does have, keeping her life in perspective when confronted with financial hardships. Above all else, Edith loves her family. No stranger to tragedy, Edith never allows her grief to overtake her ability to work and care for others.

Edith learns to value her interests and passions as the novel progresses. When Edith steps in to help Diana run Artemis Brewery, she gains the opportunity to try something new—brewing beer—while making anything she wants. Reviewers recognize

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