Wonsit: Ute Girl Crossing Wild Wyoming

Amazing Indian Children

by Kenneth Thomasma

"Disaster for the White River Ute people happened in September of 1879. Living peacefully on their reservation in a beautiful mountain valley in northern Colorado, The United States Army violated the treaty with the Ute people. Army troops from Wyoming came and made an unprovoked attack on the peaceful Ute people. The governor of Colorado demanded that the "savages" be removed from his state. The U.S. government moved the Utes to northern Utah where they faced more unfair treatment until they decided to try to find a better place to live. Ten-year-old Wonsit and her faithful mule, Willow, face survival on a dangerous journey across Wyoming."--back cover.

191 pages, Paperback

Published January 1, 2018

About the author

Kenneth Thomasma is a professional storyteller and writing workshop leader who lives in Jackson Hole, Wyoming.

Reviews

[Anne Osterlund]

Wonsit is a brave young lady. After she saves a child from the threat of a racing carriage, she is honored by her tribe with the gift of young mule. Her parents are proud of her, but bad news is coming. The Ute people have been ordered away from their lands. Wonsit's father already suffers from PTSD after a tragic battle with army soldiers during his youth. He and Wonsit's mother are determined to keep Wonsit safe as the family travels in search of a new home. But Wonsit is not the type to stand back in the face of trouble.

Another interesting story for young readers. I appreciate Mr. Thomasma's endeavor to introduce readers to so many different events from different historical time periods.

[Abigail Werner]

I bought this book while I was visiting Yellowstone National Park a few years ago. This is a middle-school grade book, a pretty easy read while also sharing some history about some of the challenges native Americans went through. I enjoyed this read and will read it again!

[Kathy Keefe]

I have read most all of Thomasma’s books. While this one was a good read it was not one of my faves.