Luke, 1849: On the Golden Trail

American Adventures

by Bonnie Pryor

Luke Reed admires his father, a hardworking homesteader battling the harsh prairie lands of Iowa. Still, Luke, a talented artist, dreams of a different kind of life. His father says that Luke's artwork is a waste of time, but Uncle Eli is more sympathetic. A trader of goods along the Santa Fe Trail, Eli has led an adventurous life. When an unexpected event frees Luke from the backbreaking work of the farm, he eagerly agrees to join his uncle on a trip to Boston.

As the pair travel east by horseback, ferry, and stagecoach, they see hordes of people going the other way. There's gold in California, so the rumor says. Before long, Luke and Uncle Eli are tempted to turn right around and join the rush west!

During the Gold Rush, dreamers of every kind flocked to California to make their fortunes. Luke's own journey, filled with excitement, discovery, and danger, is a memorable American Adventure.

Hardcover

First published January 1, 1999

Reviews

[Sharon Huether · Rating 5 out of 5]

Luke lived on the plains of Iowa. He had a wonderful talent for drawing;which his father felt as a non money making occupation.
His Uncle Eli loved Luke's artistic ability and realized he needed to go to school and learn to read and write.
Luke experienced a great adventure traveling back to Boston with his Uncle Eli.

[Annie Henderson · Rating 2 out of 5]

It was good book, but it ended without finishing the story

[Kristi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alot of informative 1800's details put in a fictionalized setting. My boys all enjoyed this one. The plot was simple, not heavy, and enough action to keep my kids interested.

[Elisabeth · Rating 2 out of 5]

I read it so I could see if it was good for the kids and get a quick read for a library program. Not recommended.

[Kelsey Yates · Rating 3 out of 5]

Nice little historical fiction for kids. Read aloud or good for 4th grader alone.