Saturday, October 27, 2012

Alternatives to Little House on the Prarie.






Last October, I wrote a review to the popular 'Little House on the Prairie' series. [Yes, I still hold to my belief that those books are overrated.] Last May, I'd checked out two books. So if you're looking for alternative/similar books to LHOTP, this is a list for you.

The Jumping-Off Place by Marion Hurd McNeely
Newbery Honor 1930

Synopsis: Four orphaned children set off to fulfill their late uncle's dream of homesteading in the Dakotas. They had planned to have their uncle with them. However, an untimely stroke and his resulting death left them setting off on their own to "prove up" his claim. This story is about their determination to make it through 14 months despite hardships common to homesteading, unexpected trials such as a contest on their claim by neighbors intent on causing trouble, and the Dakota weather.(Source: Amazon.com)

Review: In my experiences, books released in the 20s often have the problem of the writing being outdated and difficult to read. But with The Jumping-Off Place, I was surprised by its writing style. For the most part, it's easy to read. And Unlike LHOTP, I enjoyed the main characters and wanted them to succeed. While the ending is predictable, it's still a good read for children ages 9 - 14.
Rating: 4 out of 5

Hattie Big Sky by Kirby Larson
Newbery Honor 2007

Synopsis: Alone in the world, sixteen-year-old Hattie courageously leaves Iowa to prove up on her late uncle's homestead claim near Vida, Montana. With a stubborn stick-to-itiveness, Hattie faces frost, drought and blizzards. Despite many hardships, Hattie forges ahead, her backbreaking quest for a home is lightened by her neighbors, the Muellers. But she feels threatened by pressure to be a "Loyal" American, forbidding friendships with folks of German descent. Despite everything, Hattie's determined to stay until a tragedy causes her to discover the true meaning of home.(Source: Amazon.com)

Review: This story was based on the experiences of Mrs. Larson's great-grandmother. Even though many events of the story were created, there's still a sense of believability to Hattie life and struggles. Larson gives so much dignity and respect to Hattie that the reader grows to not only admire Hattie, but also the woman who inspired the story in the first place.While aspects of the story are cliched [i.e. one farm standing in the way of the greedy ranch owner], the story makes up for it by creating a likeable yet imperfect heroine, believable supporting characters and offering some unexpected twists. This book would be good for girls (and even boys who like historical fiction) ages 13 - 16
Rating: 4 out of 5

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