Customer Reviews

Minn of the Mississippi

5 star:		(14)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

Within moments of hatching in the headwaters of the Mississippi River, Minn, a female snapping turtle, loses a rear leg when a boy shoots her. She is rescued by a native American boy, who cares for her until she is well enough to go out on her own. She travels down the length of the river, avoiding turtle hunters, cruising over waterfalls and dams, laying eggs, and taking part in the life cycle of the river. The story follows Minn through her 25 year trip down to the Gulf of Mexico. It is told from the turtle's point-of-view and there are many charming full page color illustrations that the younger child will appreciate. Notes, pictures and maps in the margins of the text give details of the geography of the Mississippi, its animals, plants, cities, dams, bridges, that the older child and adult reader will find informative and meaningful.

At age 52, I can vividly remember discovering this book in my local library as a boy in 4th grade, especially the luminous color illustrations and drawings Hollings used to tell the story of the journey of a snapping turtle from the Mississippi's trickling source in Minnesota, to its fullness in the Gulf of Mexico. In following the life of "Minn," from hatchling to a veteran survivor of many predators and adventures, I learned the history and lore of the river and the animals and people who live in it and along its banks. This is a book that does not talk down to its young readers. I am buying one now to read again, and to share with any grandchildren who may come along in our family.

I read this book in elementary school and went looking for it again last year as a gift for a niece. Be warned that there's a scene that she found really sad (Minn gets hurt) -- and it made her cry. So maybe it's not for sensitive first-graders. Still, the story is wonderful and little Minn is a great character. There's also a lot of fascinating natural detail. And stunning illustrations. It's a children's book version of a top-notch Nature documentary. "Nova" in print, if you will. Also check out Holling Clancy Holling's other books. They're all great, even looking back at them after three decades.

I discovered this book when I was in fourth grade. I thought it was the best book ever written. I especially enjoyed the juxaposition of the biology of the snapping turtle with the history and geography of the Mississippi River

Read this book as a child, and wanted it in my own personal library. Wonderful book!

I love this book because it teaches so much geography and history. The pictures are amazing.

I read this story in grade school,and I am glad that it is still available! A great introduction to turtles, and the history of America's greatest river, the Mississippi. Fascinating tale, great ending!

Absolutely wonderful story and pictures of a turtle's century-long journey down the Mississippi River. It tells all about the great river by following the turtle through harrowing and exciting adventures. I remember reading this book in the second grade, then ordered myself a copy 50 years later!

Our son enjoyed reading the book to our grandchildren, 3 to 9 years. They were all very interested in reading a portion each night.

Holling writes GREAT adventure stories that provoke kids to think of the big picture as well as the details! I love his books, ever since I was little. I bought this book to pass along its wealth and beauty to the next generation in our family.