From Publishers Weekly
"This austere tale set in 1855 tells how the children of Oregon settlers are left to fend for themselves on the frontier," said PW, noting that "it will gratify those who seek a quiet, contemplative read." Ages 8-12. (Aug.) r
Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.
--This text refers to the
Paperback
edition.
From School Library Journal
Grade 3-6-After their father suffers a "fit of palsy," three motherless children try to keep their struggling farm going in 1855 Oregon. Although nine-year-old Benjamin is the youngest, he is the cleverest of the three, and also the one who truly believes that the man can recover. His sister Nettie wants to marry and start her own life, but agrees to help the family for as long as she can. Harrison is much bigger and stronger than his younger brother, but not quite as quick thinking. After Benjamin figures out a way to communicate with his father, he convinces the others that if they can build the barn that the man had been planning, he will somehow find a reason to live. The family relationships are well drawn, as the siblings react to each situation in their own way, though Benjamin's obsession with curing his father makes him a hard character to empathize with at times. Ultimately, the boy is forced to question his own additional motives for building the barn. While focusing mainly on his characters, Avi presents a vivid picture of the time and place, including fairly involved details about how the barn is constructed. This novel may not have the wide appeal of some of Avi's earlier titles, but it is a thought-provoking and engaging piece of historical fiction.
Steven Engelfried, West Lynn Library, ORCopyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.
--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
