Publisher Description

Imagine leaving your home and moving across the country to a new life on the unknown frontier. That's exactly what members of the Donner Party were trying to do in the mid-1800s when they traveled out west, chasing their dreams of a better life. But instead, many were destined to meet a cruel fate. Lively language, historical illustrations, and primary source journal entries from members of the Donner Party help readers feel as if they were a part of the journey. Meets Common Core critical thinking standards, and provides strong ties to social studies standards on westward expansion.

Author Biography

Danielle Smith-Llera's former life as a teacher led her to write books for young people. She has taught literature, writing, history, and visual arts to students ranging from elementary school to college. Danielle studied English and Visual Arts at Harvard University and exhibits her artwork internationally. As the spouse of a diplomat, she and her family have lived in Washington D.C., New Delhi, India and Kingston, Jamaica.

Table of Contents

The journey begins -- Following the trail -- Trouble on the trail -- Trapped in the mountains -- California at last.

Promotional "Headline"

Primary source material and engaging, narrative text makes readers feel as if they were there and part of the action; Strong curriculum tie-ins; Meets CCSS standards for grades 3-5; Consultants are experts on the topic and include professors, historians, and subject-specific authors; Fun Fact: Hastings' shortcut was actually 125 miles longer than the normal route; Fun Fact: More women survived from the Donner Party than men.

Feature

Bolded Glossary Words, Caption(s), Discussion Questions, Glossary, Heading(s)/Subheading(s), Illustration(s)/Drawing(s), Index, Map(s), More Resources/Suggestions for Further Reading, Photograph(s), Primary Sources, Pronunciation Guide, Sidebar(s), Table of Contents, Timeline(s)

Details