Blog

Movie Potential

A number of people who have read the book have commented that it has movie potential. I agree, but believe that a movie should not necessarily follow the same chronological order as the book.

In the 1980’s there was a movie made called the Emerald Forest which began with a riveting chase scene in which a child was abducted and the father made a desperate pursuit.  Trial and Triumph has an analogous chase scene. A young couple with an infant, are working near their cabin, when an Indian (John Otherday), approaches and makes signals trying to get their attention. The couple had just immigrated from Germany, and did not speak English, and did not understand him.  Then waved to him and continued their chores. The Indian grows more and more agitated and finally dashes into the cabin, and grabs the infant and races towards the forest. The couple naturally gives chase, desperately trying to recover their child. When at a safe distance into the forest, and at a rise where the clearing where the cabin is located is visible, the Indian abruptly stops, and points back in the direction from which they had come. To their horror, they can see their cabin and crops in flames, with Sioux warriors busy plundering and burning whatever they find. Now they first understand the peril they are in and that John Otherday has saved their lives.

In the book there are several events which are related second hand by witnesses, which although already enthralling would be all the more exciting if presented first hand.  Walter’s capture at Gettysburg, the defense of Fort Ridgely and the massacre at Kreigers farm come to mind.

Follow my Facebook, Twitter and Goodreads for more updates!