Mary Austin
The Trail Book
"The Trail Book" by Mary Austin is a collection of imaginative stories written in the early 20th century. This work intricately weaves tales around the adventures of children exploring mythical landscapes and the stories of different Native American tribes, particularly focusing on their connections with animals and nature, as seen through the experiences of characters such as Oliver and his sister Dorcas Jane. In the opening portion of the book, we are introduced to Oliver, a curious boy, who believes that the stuffed animals in the museum come to life at night. He awakens his sister Dorcas Jane’s interest when he proposes an adventure to discover these hidden mysteries. As they sneak into the museum after hours, Oliver is captivated by the "Buffalo Trail," where he envisions it leading to the great prairies filled with life. The story then blooms into a fantastical narrative led by the animated Bull Buffalo and other creatures who guide the children through legends of buffalo herds and Native American lore, setting the stage for a journey of wonder, deeper understanding, and exploration of their habitats.