Subject
Overland journeys to the Pacific -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
William Henry Giles Kingston
Dick Onslow Among the Redskins
"Dick Onslow Among the Redskins" by William Henry Giles Kingston is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the adventures of Dick Onslow, who is part of an emigrant party journeying to California, navigating the perilous landscapes of the Rocky Mountains. Along the way, they face numerous threats, including encounters with hostile Native American tribes and the dangers of the wilderness itself. The opening of the book sets the stage for a thrilling adventure as we are introduced to Dick Onslow and his companions, who embark on their migration to California. After camp is set, they are suddenly attacked by a group of hostile Indians, resulting in a chaotic struggle for survival. Dick is wounded in the chaos and becomes separated from the rest of the group, leading him into a desperate situation where he must rely on his resourcefulness to evade capture. As he hides and reflects on his precarious condition, he is forced into a battle of wits against nature and the threat of the Indigenous tribes, setting the tone for the suspenseful and action-packed events that will follow in his journey.
Edward Sylvester Ellis
Deerfoot in The Mountains
"Deerfoot in The Mountains" by Edward Sylvester Ellis is a young adult adventure novel written in the early 20th century. It follows the story of Deerfoot, a Shawanoe youth, and his friends, George and Victor Shelton, as they journey through the wilderness, facing various challenges while exploring the American frontier. The narrative delves into themes of bravery, camaraderie, and the clashes between Indigenous cultures and encroaching white settlers. The opening of the book sets the stage for the adventure, introducing Deerfoot and his companions as they travel from the Ohio River toward the Pacific Coast. They pause to admire the grandeur of the ocean, and discussions about their respective cultures and the future of their lands arise, highlighting Deerfoot's profound contemplation. As they make their way back upriver, the group encounters hardship that tests their resilience and friendship. The narrative hints at Deerfoot's sense of responsibility toward his horse, Whirlwind, and foreshadows the challenges to come, creating an engaging atmosphere that draws readers into the unfolding adventure.
F. S. (Frederick Sadleir) Brereton
Indian and Scout: A Tale of the Gold Rush to California
"Indian and Scout: A Tale of the Gold Rush to California" by F. S. Brereton is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story is set against the backdrop of the California Gold Rush and follows the life of Jack Kingsley, the young hero whose father was murdered by a man named Tusker Joe. Tusker's dark past and Jack's quest for justice intertwine as they navigate the dangerous and lawless environment of the gold mining era." "The opening of the story introduces readers to Tusker Joe, a menacing figure in a saloon who grapples with the consequences of his recent violent actions. After a confrontation that leads to the murder of two men, Tusker Joe becomes a target for the law, prompting fear and gossip among the townsfolk. Meanwhile, Jack Kingsley, the son of one of Tusker's victims, is introduced as a young boy determined to uncover the truth behind his father’s death, setting forth a narrative filled with adventure, moral dilemmas, and the pursuit of justice in a tumultuous period of American history."
James Otis
Martha of California: A Story of the California Trail
"Martha of California: A Story of the California Trail" by James Otis is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The book focuses on the life of a young girl named Martha Early as she embarks on a challenging journey with her family from Missouri to California during the mid-19th century, a time when many were influenced by the Gold Rush and the promise of fertile land. Through Martha's eyes, readers experience the hardships and adventures faced by the early emigrants on the California Trail. The opening portion of the story introduces Martha Early, who reflects on her past and the reasons her family is leaving their home in Pike County, Missouri. Her father, convinced that California offers better land and opportunities amidst the gold rush, drives the family to join a group of fellow emigrants. As the preparations for the journey unfold, both Martha and her mother express concerns about the challenges they may encounter along the way. The narrative highlights the initial excitement of embarking on the journey, punctuated by moments of doubt and apprehension about their decision to journey into an unknown land. As they set out, the atmosphere is filled with a mix of hope and anxiety, foreshadowing the experiences ahead.
George Bird Grinnell
Jack in the Rockies: A Boy's Adventures with a Pack Train
"Jack in the Rockies: A Boy's Adventures with a Pack Train" by George Bird Grinnell is a children's adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows a young boy named Jack Danvers, who embarks on a journey through the western United States, specifically the Rocky Mountains, alongside his mentor, Hugh Johnson. The narrative captures their experiences with the landscape, wildlife, and local Indigenous tribes, illustrating both the beauty and challenges of frontier life during that era. The opening of the book sets the stage for Jack and Hugh’s adventure as they navigate a river on a steamboat, moving toward their destination, Fort Benton. Jack reflects on his previous experiences with the Piegan tribe and his eagerness to reconnect with nature. The narrative introduces significant historical context by mentioning the challenges faced by Native Americans, such as disease due to contact with Europeans. Additionally, interactions between Jack and various characters aboard the steamboat provide insight into the dynamic and rugged life of the plains, foreshadowing the adventures and encounters awaiting them as they delve deeper into the Rockies.
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