"Basing her story on the published accounts of her true-life heroine,
Mary Ellen Todd, Van Leeuwen describes a family's tumultuous journey
along the Oregon Trail in 1852." --Publishers Weekly
With only a guide book to show them the way, the Todd family sets out
from their Arkansas home on a two thousand mile trek to claim
unchartered Oregon Territory. Crossing rough terrain and encountering
hostile people, the Todds show their true pioneering spirit. But as
winter draws near, will the Todds have the strength to complete their
journey? And if they make it, will Oregon fulfill their dreams?
"This is a convincing picture of a pioneer journey that does a good
job of showing the tremendous sacrifices people made to follow their
dream of a better life." -School Library Journal