William M. Hinman was a life-long educator and poet, alive during the turn of the twentieth century. But until now, the only people who had the privilege of reading his poems were his friends and relatives.

Tommy Hawks Hill, a compilation of Hinman’s poetry edited by his great-great-grandson Robert Todd Christensen, offers twenty-first-century readers the opportunity to see the late 1800s and early 1900s through new eyes. Experience moments both extraordinary and mundane as the poet offers glimpses into his everyday life during this momentous time in history.

Some poems are more overtly historic, covering topics such as the 1939 World’s Fair in New York, the introduction of the automobile, and the wars that shook the world. This book, however, offers an additional, unique view of the past in that the poet also shares moments from his everyday life, family relationships, school experiences, and community events in small-town America.

Throughout the book, readers will see the threads of patriotism that helped define the average American’s life during this time, as well as a strong sense of community and dedication to family. A breath of fresh air, Tommy Hawks Hill doesn’t make light of harsh realities, but it does approach them with honesty and hope.