As part of the Wagons Out West program, several fifth graders undertake the challenge of making it to Oregon. With her usual wit and wisdom, Jamie Gilson has created two new characters sure to keep you laughing as they win your heart.
Star and a half because the author can write; she just can't write Middle Grade characters. I first read this half a dozen times in fifth grade. I wanted my school to do something like it! We did not. I wished I was tall like Dinah. Instead, I had a -lot- in common with Orin. Still do. As an adult, I have to ask: does Kool-Aid work as a hair dye on fine, blonde hair? I have dark hair that requires special dye and styling products, so Kool=Aid attempts would never amount to anything. I'm just curious if the urban legend is true. So, Kool-Aid's possible uses have more of my attention in this story, than the story itself. I was surprised at how boring and annoying I found this book as an adult. There were too many stories and characters jammed into one little book, and the chapter names were annoying. I'm glad I found it again, though. I have set aside a good book for myself to read, and shall now.
Cute story. I am interested in the West ward Expansion and this story gave some info about that time period. It was presented through the eyes of fifth graders learning through a cool school project! Back in times!!!
I read this book once in middle school, and while it passed out of my mind for a while, it made a big enough impression on me that I can still remember chunks of it and that I liked it quite a bit. I'd like to read it again, but even without that, I recommend it. If you can find a copy.