Library Book: The Bite of the Gold Bug

Once Upon America

by National Geographic Learning, Barthe DeClements

It's 1898, and Bucky can't wait to get to Alaska to find gold and adventure. But the journey is hard. Bucky, Pa, and Uncle Tanner must face deadly storms, numbing cold, and the Golden Stairs—a grueling six-hour nonstop trudge up the mountainside with heavy packs on their backs. Can Bucky make it?

Bucky and his father, prospecting for gold in Alaska in 1898, must overcome storms, dangerous mountain trails, and wilderness predators before confronting the final challenge of human treachery.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Childrens

64 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1992

Reviews

[Miss Amanda · Rating 3 out of 5]

gr 4-6 53 pgs


Seattel/Alaska, 1898. When Uncle Tanner convinces Bucky's dad to join him and prospect for gold at his claim, Bucky is invited to go with them. Together they brave rapids and climb up the "Golden Stair". Prospecting for gold is hard work and they are very excited when they finally find some. When Uncle Tanner disappears along with the gold, Bucky wonders if the gold is gone for good.

Reminded me of "Jason's Gold", but this book is for a younger audience because it doesn't go into the same level of detail that "Jason's Gold" went into.

[Deanna]

This book brings to life the story of the Alaskan Gold Rush in the 1890's. It's about a boy who goes on a treacherous journey with his dad and uncle to find gold. The journey is hard for the boy; facing dangerous storms and unbearing cold at times, but the boy knows he must push on to help his father and uncle provide for their family.
This was a great read, it kept me on the edge of my seat; wanting to know what was going to happen next.

[Cindy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Since Isaac just studied the Gold Rush, I pulled out this little paperback. It's a good fictional story to introduce kids to the life of stampeders following the allure of gold in Alaska. And you can finish it in one day - a nice change from our usual read-aloud.

[Daphne Da Silva · Rating 5 out of 5]

i think this book is funny and awsome to read becuase it just is. the author includes many details to the text so the reader can see what is happening in the book.

[Karen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Doubt this will maintain the interest of the Battle of the Books teams. Historical part somewhat interesting. Story itself weak.

[Kenley/Katie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read it because of battle of the books

[Jessica Vincent]

BOB