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Cover of Children of the Wild West
5.0

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Children of the Wild West

by Russell Freedman

Book Details

Publisher:Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Published:1983
Pages:116
Format:paperback
Language:English
ISBN:0395547857

Reading Info

Age Range:10+

About This Book

This is a portrait of pioneer and American Indian children in the 19th-century West. It covers both the lives of settlers, crossing America in covered wagons and building log or sod cabins, and of the American Indians whose lives were changed by the new arrivals.

Our Review

This compelling historical account brings to life the daily experiences of young pioneers and Native American children during westward expansion, offering a balanced perspective on 19th-century frontier life. Through vivid descriptions and archival photographs, readers witness both the adventure of covered wagon journeys and the profound cultural changes experienced by indigenous communities. The narrative captures the resilience required for building log cabins and sod houses while honestly addressing how westward migration transformed Native American traditions and territories. This thoughtful examination provides middle grade readers with authentic insights into a complex period of American history.

What distinguishes this historical account is its dual focus that allows children to understand multiple perspectives simultaneously, making it particularly valuable for classroom discussions about westward expansion. Young readers who enjoy immersive historical narratives will appreciate the detailed depictions of frontier chores, pioneer schooling, and Native American customs. The accessible writing style combined with carefully selected period photographs creates an engaging learning experience that helps modern children connect with the past. This balanced approach to a challenging chapter in American history encourages critical thinking while honoring the experiences of all children who called the West home.

Themes

Juvenile Nonfiction

Subjects

Juvenile Nonfiction