Page 35 - Reader's House Magazine Issue 52

that history is not just about events, but about people: their love, sacrifices, and enduring humanity. Throughout her literary journey, she has maintained a strong connection to her roots as a proud wife, mother, grandmother, and storyteller, drawing inspiration from the lives of those closest to her.
In this exclusive interview, Eleanor takes us behind the scenes of her creative process, her inspiration for The Heart of a Soldier, and the legacy she hopes to leave through her writing. Whether you’re drawn to history, personal reflection, or simply the honest truths of life, Eleanor D. Alspaugh’s words promise to engage and inspire you deeply.
What inspired you to write “The Heart
of a Soldier,” and how did you approach combining personal letters with historical research?
Having saved my father’s letters written home during World War II, my mother had of- ten asked me to read the letters. I preferred just enjoying our visits and reminiscing of times when my father was still with us. However, once they were both gone, the letters became
a lifeline to me, a way to reconnect with both my parents. As I read them, I felt moved by their story, and wanted to share the letters with others, particularly my family. Knowing how busy the world we live in is, I truly doubted that even my own family would find the time to open each envelope, see the personal notes
Eleanor D. Alspaugh captivates readers with heartfelt storytelling, fusing historical insight and emotional depth into timeless, inspiring narratives of love and resilience.
tucked inside and read the letters filled with his experiences and heart. I also could not help but wonder what was going on in the world around them as they corresponded. It was then that I began to envision a book that included Dad’s letters and some from my uncles, but also the history occurring as they wrote their letters. I felt others might enjoy the letters
and learning about this historic time that my parents and so many others had lived through, presented in a personal manner rather than an impersonal history textbook. The book shares their story and at times, my thoughts as I entwined the letters with extensive research of significant World War II events and circum- stances, in addition to sharing the combat
path of my father’s unit, the Sixth Armored Division of General Patton’s Third Army.
How did your father’s letters influence your understanding of his experiences during World War II and his relationship with your mother?
My father’s letters shared the perspective of a wartime soldier, determined to do his duty,
yet realizing he might never return to her. Al- though deeply in love, he was selfless, loving my mother enough to encourage her to keep living life, having fun, even dating. Dad stated that he would not marry her before leaving for the war as he did not want her to have to spend her life caring for him if he returned severely injured.
What challenges did you face while researching and writing about the historical context of your father’s service in the “Super Sixth”?
As I started writing The Heart of a Soldier, I faced numerous challenges. I was a work-
ing wife and mother, raising three children, and had achieved my desired position as an Assistant Vice President, with an abundance of responsibilities and writing assignments that accompanied that title. I was also secretly working on my first book, writing nights, weekends, and vacations, what would eventu- ally be my first award-winning book, entitled The Mommy-Go-Round. Oh yes, and there was one more ‘little hitch’ to my plan for this book. I was a business major and as far from
Eleanor Alspaugh’s The Heart of a Soldier is a moving blend of personal letters and historical context, capturing Sgt. George Donald’s bravery, sacrifices, and enduring love during World War II. Through intimate correspondence and supplemental research, the book offers a heartfelt tribute to the Greatest Generation and their wartime experiences.
and citizens faced during World War II. As a result, I tried to draw readers into their long- ago reality. I encouraged people to imagine what their lives would be like if subjected to those same prejudices and struggles, not to mention the danger faced in battle or even ex- tensive training. I do hope that readers of The Heart of a Soldier will better understand the hardships people endured during World War II and the lasting love of family that helped soldiers survive.
Can you share any details about your upcoming projects, such as the sequel to “The Mommy-Go-Round” or your next children’s book?
Occasionally, you will hear someone com- ment that parenting never ends. Well, let me assure you, that is absolutely true! I still find humor sharing life realities that parents expe- rience as their children grow up, marry and eventually become parents themselves. The joy of parenting seriously includes so many unexpected situations that no one warns you about, so stay tuned! Both the sequel and my children’s book are making progress. Hopeful- ly, the chaos of parenting and grandparenting will not hold me back too long! Stay tuned!
a historian as one could get. I had to face facts and postpone further writing or research until about 15 years later, when I grabbed at the opportunity of an early retirement. My dream of writing this book was still in my heart.
How do you balance writing about deeply personal family stories with ensuring historical accuracy and broader appeal?
My writing comes from my heart. My first very personal book shared a naïve working mother’s initiation into motherhood. It was fun, sometimes challenging and perhaps, in lieu of therapy, I worked through my thoughts, feelings and observations as I wrote that first book. I later wrote a second book, When D is For Deployed, again heart driven as I watched my son-in-law deployed, and his wife, my daughter, and their young daughter try to continue their everyday life yet stay close to him, despite being worlds apart. As for The Heart of a Soldier, I was always aware of my father’s heroism and the medals he received for his service, but that was family history. When finally reading his letters and immersing myself in World War II history, my heart was touched as I was transcended in time, touched by my parents’ love at its beginning, and began to see the challenges and struggles they endured at home and away as he fought in this war. Together, it all gave me a much better understanding of the impact on their lives, their hopes and dreams and I realized that so many other lives were also put on hold as they faced similar challenges at home and around the world.
What message or lessons do you hope readers take away from “The Heart of a Soldier”?
Everyday life is known to have stress and challenges. As I researched and wrote this book, I read so much of the various challeng- es, dangers and difficult circumstances soldiers
Reader’s House II 35
D