Some Luck (Last Hundred Years: A Family Saga, #1) Summary & Key Insights

Jane Smiley's Some Luck, the first installment of her ambitious Last Hundred Years trilogy, chronicles the lives of the Langdon family across the tumultuous 20th century, specifically from 1920 to 1945. The narrative unfolds through the experiences of Frank Langdon, a midwestern farmer, and his wife, Rosaleen, alongside their growing family. Smiley meticulously depicts the changing landscape of American agriculture and society, skillfully intertwining the personal struggles of the Langdons with the broader historical context.

The book begins with Frank and Rosaleen's relatively modest beginnings, their marriage built on a foundation of hard work, frugality, and a shared commitment to their land. Their initial luck stems from fortunate timing – they manage to acquire a successful farm during a period of relative prosperity. However, this luck is constantly tested by the relentless forces of nature, economic downturns, and the ever-present threat of societal injustice.

The Langdon family expands, with the arrival of their four children: Will, a sensitive and intellectual son; Alfred, a charismatic but flawed individual; Sylvie, the thoughtful and independent daughter; and Joe, the often overlooked youngest. Each child's personality and experiences shape the family’s trajectory, reflecting the diverse paths individuals take within a changing society. The novel vividly portrays the impact of the Great Depression, forcing the Langdons to grapple with financial hardship and difficult choices. We see the family's resilience and their capacity for both cooperation and conflict.

Central to the narrative is the exploration of family dynamics. The Langdons are far from idyllic; their relationships are characterized by love, resentment, ambition, and disappointment. Frank's patriarchal authority is challenged as his children mature and pursue their own aspirations. Rosaleen, often overlooked despite her crucial role in maintaining the family's stability, quietly endures hardship and silently observes the evolution of her family and the world around her.

Underlying the family saga are significant themes: the impact of historical events on individual lives, the complexities of family relationships, the changing role of women, the challenges of rural life in the 20th century, and the elusive nature of luck itself. Smiley masterfully weaves these elements together, demonstrating how personal choices intersect with broader societal forces. The "luck" of the title is not simply good fortune, but also the capriciousness of fate, the unpredictable consequences of decisions, and the enduring power of family bonds amidst adversity. By the end of Some Luck, the Langdon family has been significantly reshaped by the events of the first quarter of the 20th century, setting the stage for the continuing saga in subsequent volumes.