The Beautiful Plain

Laura Runnell, the narrator, reflects on her childhood in Platte, Nebraska, where she moved at age three when her father became the planning commissioner for the county.

Despite being a city kid and Carrie Pierce, a farm kid from a 15-mile distant farm spanning two counties, the two became inseparable friends in kindergarten.

Their bond began on their first day of school when their teacher, Miss Clearman, paired them together after noticing they were the only two children crying.

Miss Clearman, described as having ample breasts and a nurturing presence, encouraged their friendship by placing them at conjoined desks.

Laura’s family was quiet and book-filled, while Carrie’s family had wealth, which allowed Carrie to bridge the rural-urban divide at school.

The two shared a Clifford lunch box with matching granola bars and spent their early years together, with Laura following Carrie’s lead in fashion and social dynamics.