LITTLE HOUSE by Laura Ingalls Wilder
Laura Ingalls Wilder was born in 1867 into a warm and loving family. She lived in a log cabin, traveled across the country in a covered wagon and shared the story of her life in the classic Little House book series, which millions of readers have loved since 1932 when LITTLE HOUSE IN THE BIG WOODS was first published.
Because there was a period of Laura's life that she didn't include in her series, well-known author Cynthia Rylant wrote another Little House book called OLD TOWN IN THE GREEN GROVES to fill in the gap, and William Anderson penned LAURA INGALLS WILDER: A BIOGRAPHY. Within these 11 books, readers will discover an honest portrayal of the life of a pioneer girl --- from her travels as a toddler in a covered wagon to an airplane ride when she was elderly.
Aside from the excellent stories, the Little House books are full of fascinating facts. Have you ever wondered how the old-time settlers made butter? Here you will find out each step in the process, along with the surprising way that Mrs. Ingalls colored the butter yellow. When Laura's mother needed a vegetable grater, Laura's father made one by punching an old pan full of nail holes. When the family wanted to eat meat in the winter, Mr. Ingalls went out to the shed and hacked off a chunk of frozen meat with an ax.
Through good times and bad, sorrow and pleasure, danger and celebrations, the Ingalls faced hardships and fortunate times alike, united in grace, humor, love and hard work. It's a pleasure to join them in these tales, which are as relevant and gripping today as they were 75 years ago.
P.S. Attention, boys! Do you think this series is only for girls, since Laura is the main character in all of them except FARMER BOY? Think again. The Little House books are actually exciting, gritty survival stories filled with adventure and danger. I double-dog dare you to read just one of them (especially THE LONG WINTER) and not be hooked.
--- Reviewed by Terry Miller Shannon (terryms2001@yahoo.com)
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