Wagon Train (Penguin Young Readers, L3)
Gr. 1^-3. From the All Aboard Reading series, this book follows a family as they cross America by covered wagon in 1848. Starting in Missouri, their wagon train makes its way through the wide prairies, across dangerous rivers, over high mountains, and into the green and pleasant land of California. Their fear of Indians proves unfounded, and their fear of getting lost is assuaged when they find signs that other settlers have crossed the same trail. Given the brevity of the book and the age of her readers, Kramer does a good job of dramatizing a typical journey without trivializing or sensationalizing its dangers. Ray's sensitive artwork not only helps children visualize the period setting, clothing, and equipment, it also brings warmth to the story and makes life on a wagon train look downright appealing. A good addition to history collections.Carolyn Phelan