The Friendly Persuasion

Jess and Eliza Birdwell are the parents of an extraordinary American family. Their commitment to "the friendly persuasion" forms the firm, steady basis for their turbulent life together. Jess' weakness for fast horses exasperates Eliza, and Eliza's stubborn devotion to her celebrated "pacing goose," Samantha, is a trial for them all. The wild misadventures of the older boys, Josh and Labe; the spuny independence of their daughter Mattie; the terrible threat of war in the countryside; all test the patience, courage, and abiding love of the Birdwells.