Showing posts with label Books about the Oregon Trail for YA. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Books about the Oregon Trail for YA. Show all posts

Thursday, June 14, 2018

Stranded, by Matthew P. Mayo, earns the Literary Classics Seal of Approval


Author Matthew P. Mayo's Stranded is inspired by the true story of Janette Riker.  Through a series of unfortunate events, fourteen-year-old Janette was left alone at the foot of the Rocky Mountains to brave the harsh conditions of winter in 1849. Written in journal format, this novel is altogether riveting. Harrowing scenes are told so vividly, and with such powerful prose, it's easy for readers to become entirely immersed in Janette's story. The young frontier girl's heart-rending account, as represented by Mayo, is one that will not soon be forgotten.  Equal parts fascinating, inspiring, and endearing, the story of this determined young lady who endured unbearable conditions in the unforgiving wilderness is suitable for readers of all ages who will surely be entranced by this historically accurate work of fiction.

Stranded is recommended for home and school libraries and has earned the Literary Classics Seal of Approval. 


LITERARY CLASSICS Book Awards & Reviews International Book Awards • Top Honors Youth Book Awards • Seal of Approval http://www.clcawards.org

Thursday, September 24, 2015

Grog Wars, by Anne Sweazy-Kulju, earns the Literary Classics Seal of Approval



The wild west was wild but offered challenges to those brave enough for the adventure. Burke Kaufman, a young German who has been sent by his father to America to expand the family business, is one such man.  Burke’s father and another man, who has fallen on hard times financially, arrange for their son and daughter to marry.  After crossing the Atlantic by ship, they traverse the Oregon trail and finally reach Portland to open a brewery.  Grog Wars covers the trials and tribulations of this tenacious young man as he endures the rigors of travel in the 1800s, settles in a strange new town, and struggles to make his arranged marriage work.

Author, Anne Sweazy Kulju’s novel, Grog Wars, is a real treat for historical fiction buffs. One minute the author has the reader laughing, the next minute anxious and fearful for the characters, when suddenly a touching event stirs the heart.  Her characters come-to-life with detailed descriptions and genuine personalities. With danger always around the corner and lots of twists and turns, this book is a highly engaging read. We hated to see the story end.  The author has a marvelous handle on subtle humor. Her characters are unique, believable and full of depth. Whimsy abounds within the pages as she introduces historic events and fictionalized accounts in a manner which keeps the interest level high.

Historical fiction buffs are sure to love this book which is highly recommended for a young adult / mature audience.

LITERARY CLASSICS Book Awards & Reviews International Book Awards • Top Honors Youth Book Awards • Seal of Approval http://www.clcawards.org