Little Author in the Big Woods

Reviewed by: Bernie Alie - Kennebunk Free Library, Kennebunk, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: November 20, 2014

Review

Grades 2-6. An uplifting look at the life of Laura Ingalls Wilder. We get a brief overview of her mother's life, to set the stage for the importance of education for the girls, an unusual belief for the time period. We follow the movement of the Ingalls family as they move back and forth across the prairie. Hardships are glossed over, including the death of Laura's brother and her own son. Always, Laura is portrayed as cheerful, a depiction that becomes cloying at times, and makes this title appropriate for young students. Readers of the Little House series will recognize some of the tales, and will enjoy learning of Laura's later years, her relationship with her adult daughter and her writing career. The epilogue includes games Laura played, a craft, some recipes, a listing of her writings, glossary and source notes. Pencil illustrations are scattered throughout, and are youthful and innocent, depicting fresh, smiling faces.

Overall Book Score: good