Over forty years after its original nine-season run on NBC concluded, Laura Ingalls Wilder’s cherished semi-autobiographical novels have been brought back to television. The new adaptation, “Little House on the Prairie,” is crafted by Rebecca Sonnenshine with Trip Friendly, son of the original series producer Ed Friendly, as the executive producer. Presented on Netflix, the series is a blend of family drama and adventure, centering on the Ingalls family as they strive to forge a new life amidst the aftermath of the American Civil War. Although the series starts at a leisurely pace, its themes and childlike wonder remain as poignant today as they were 150 years ago.
The narrative begins with 8-year-old Laura, portrayed by Alice Halsey, reflecting on her family’s significant journey westward. Joining her on this journey are her mother, Caroline (played by Crosby Fitzgerald), her father, Charles (Luke Bracey), and her older sister, Mary (Skywalker Hughes). Leaving their farm and loved ones behind, the Ingalls embark on a nearly 800-mile trek filled with excitement and new experiences. As they approach their destination in Independence, Kansas, their journey takes a perilous turn, illustrated by a dangerous river crossing that highlights the physical challenges of such treks.
While “Little House” offers a simpler story than what modern audiences might expect, its serene tone allows key plot points to stand out. The series emphasizes themes such as patriarchy’s impact on community and the strength of sisterhood. Charles’ aspirations shape the lives of Caroline and his daughters, who, despite their hopes, have little say in their life’s direction after leaving Wisconsin’s Big Woods. Along the way, they encounter both assistance and adversity, from financial troubles to sinister encounters. Charles is portrayed as a modern man for his era, attentive to his family, yet Caroline, Mary, and Laura lack real agency over their futures, as shown in scenes of house building, a robbery, and an anticipated pregnancy.
A notable aspect of the show is the contrasting sisterhood between Laura and Mary. Laura, strong-willed and fearless, questions the world and prefers the outdoors over school or housework. She is bold, unafraid to greet strangers, including Indigenous people, despite her mother’s apprehensions. Conversely, Mary is more reserved and prefers indoor activities like sewing, aligning with her label as the responsible one who feels the weight of her parents’ concerns and her sister’s daring nature.
In Episode 6, titled “Peace on Earth,” the Ingalls face their first Christmas isolated and snowed in at Independence. Caroline, near the end of her pregnancy and still affected by a dispute with Laura, leaves Mary with the responsibility of ensuring a memorable Christmas for her younger sister. This episode poignantly explores the responsibilities often borne by the eldest daughter.
The series begins shortly after the Civil War, portraying a nascent nation grappling with its identity. Racism, prejudice, and mistrust between settlers and the Osage tribe, as well as among the settlers and Black residents, are prevalent in the series, albeit in a somewhat sanitized form. Dr. Tann (played by Jocko Sims), based on a real Black doctor who saves the Ingalls, represents a lesser-seen aspect of the Black American experience at that time, having been born free in Philadelphia as the only doctor for miles.
Additionally, the show addresses the government’s harmful policies against Indigenous populations and the railroad’s role in enticing citizens with dreams of prosperity, often leading to exploitation. These themes highlight the lasting impact on communities that once thrived on the land.
Overall, “Little House” resonates with fans of the original series and novels while introducing new viewers to the Ingalls family. It captures the essence of community, the challenges of encroachment and displacement, and the complexities of the American dream. Those familiar with Wilder’s books will recognize that Independence, Kansas, marks just the beginning of a grand journey, with plans for a second season on Netflix already underway.
“Little House on the Prairie” is now streaming on Netflix.
