Through Flood & Fire: A Second Barr Colony Adventure

Barr Colony #2

by Anne Patton

Dorothy’s father has always dreamed of having his own farm. So, with the help of Dorothy, her family, and a community that comes together despite their different backgrounds, the Boltons set out with their wagons, horses, dogs, and belongings, to create a life for themselves on the vast prairie landscape. After travelling thousands of miles, Dorothy and her familyhave arrived in Canada, and are adjusting to their new lives on the prairies. Things are different than they were in England – even the small things like food and water have to be worked for – but Dorothy is excited for the adventure they’ve started. However, the Barr Colonists who arrived with Dorothy and her family are getting restless. Lack of food and other resources have caused many families to fall ill and go hungry, and the prairie and its weather are unforgiving. Fire and floods consume homes and supplies, and many promises made to the Colonists before leaving England have proven false. Will this colony of settlers have what it takes to put down lasting roots in this strange new world?

Genres: Historical Fiction

217 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 1, 2015

About the author

Anne Patton’s books for children include Fiddle Dancer and Dancing in My Bones – books that explore Metis culture through the world of dance – and the Tyler collection for Scholastic Education.

Fiddle Dancer was nominated for a Saskatchewan Young Readers’ Choice Award, while Dancing in My Bones was the recipient of the 2010 Moonbeam Spirit Award. Full Steam to Canada is the winner of the Saskatchewan Writers' Guild John V Hicks Unpublished Long Manuscript Award.

Born in Ontario, Anne taught elementary school in Regina for many years, before retirement launched her into a career as a prolific children’s author.

Reviews

[Gabriele Goldstone · Rating 5 out of 5]

Set in 1903, this story about a British family crossing the Saskatchewan prairie from Saskatoon to near Battleford is great historical fiction. It's the second of a planned three part series. I appreciated the author's craft as she wove detailed research into 10-year-old Dodie's narrative. The author used real settlers' memories to write this book which highlights the difficulties of the homesteaders. I appreciated the glossary, and the archived photos. I loved the hand-drawn map and the illustrations. I think this book, and its companions, are perfect ways to share history with the young...and the young at heart. Seniors will also appreciate Dodie's adventures through a prairie landscape that is brutal and beautiful.

[Audrey · Rating 4 out of 5]

It is a challenge for the new settlers in Saskatchewan. Join Dorothy and her family as they travel to a new settlement. They face many hardships, such as illness and deprivation. There were a lot of adjustments as they had to work hard for everything that they needed. They had to adapt to a new country and culture. Canada was so different from England, but they faced their new life with fortitude and courage.

[C2015 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just a really interesting read, a fun story. It’s really cool to see the kids mature so quickly. And the mother lol. Looking for more. Thank you!

[Colette · Rating 3 out of 5]

Inspired by real life events, Through Flood and Fire describes Dorothy's family's journey from Saskatoon to their homestead land in Saskatchewan. Although the second volume in the Barr Colonists series, this novel stands alone as it's own adventure. The perils of the journey are numerous and Dottie is exposed to many dangers. The time period is strikingly accurate and includes some of the racist attitudes of the time. Recommended for middle grade readers who enjoyed the Little House on the Prairie series.

[Gillian Kisman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Through Flood and Fire vividly captures the trials and tribulations of pioneer settlers moving across the prairies to in 1904 to reach "their dream location" Thorough research enables this absorbing story to be used as a learning tool for preteens as well as for adults like me, unfamiliar with the prairie landscape. I learned a great deal as well as thoroughly enjoying the story. Wonderful descriptions of the landscape and exciting moments all contribute to a book which deserves to be read by all generations.