Bound for Oregon

With only a guide book to show them the way, the Todd family sets out from their Arkansas home on a two thousand mile trek to claim unchartered Oregon Territory. Crossing rough terrain and encountering hostile Indians, the Todds show their true pioneering spirit. But as winter draws near, will the Todds have the strength to complete their journey? And if they make it, will Oregon fulfill their dreams?

This is a mostly true tale. While researching the Oregon Trail--the route many settlers used to travel overland to the west coast in the mid 19th Century--Ms. Van Leeuwen came across the memoirs of Mary Ellen Todd, a woman who had traveled the trail as a nine-year-old back in 1852, as recorded by Mary Ellen's daughter. It was a fascinating account and, in order to make it more readable to a modern audience, Ms. Van Leeuwen rewrote the tale, fleshing out details with her own imagination and the accounts of other pioneers. She did a good job. The story drew me in and I started wondering how the characters would fare as they made the arduous journey. It's a tale well worth checking out.
--J.

Straightforward children's book that describes one family's journey on the Oregon Trail.

From my 11 y/o daughter:

This delightful book is about Mary Ellen Todd's adventure journeying to Oregon. Along the way she makes new friends, her calf, Daisy drowns in a river, and meets some scary looking Indians. But, her hardest challenge is, trying to become a brave, pioneer girl.

I recommend this book to anyone who likes history, adventure, and the wild west.

http://j-kaye-book-blog.blogspot.com/

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