Beyond Mingus

Beyond Mingus is the story of a young girl in early days Arizona.

Her family was typical of many families in small mountain towns. They worked hard and they traded their services and skills with other families for mutual benefit.

Thus it was stressed in the young girl, Mabel, that she must learn a useful skill. But Mabel has a dream of something beyond what her mother seems to choose for her.

In the story, she is given advice. Her mother is direct and practical; her father is understanding and kind; her teacher is thoughtful and knowing, her aunt is wise and encouraging. But it is her love and closeness with a little mischievous burro that helps her find her way.