Keystones of the Stone Arch Bridge

by Carolyn Ruff

In order to earn money to bring Fritz's momma and sisters from Sweden to America, the determined Fritz sets out to master a new skill, working as the youngest stonemason on the crew building the Stone Arch Bridge across the Mississippi River. Along the way, Fritz, always eager to learn, unlocks secrets of his new homeland from details of the river's geology and the area's animals to stories of brave stands against slavery and the dangers of flour milling.

He befriends Margaret, Metis girl whose family has called the region home for generations, and meets notable early settler Emily Goodridge Grey. Applying his developing stonecutting skills, he records these many lessons in the keystones of the bridge.

Working through the summer, Fritz grows in responsibility and stature. Best of all, soon after the bridge is complete, he is able to show off his handiwork to Mamma in person.

Genres: Historical Fiction

80 pages, Paperback

First published April 15, 2014

Reviews

[Brenda · Rating 3 out of 5]

Had great (Minnesota) historical tie-ins! The kids were constantly popping their heads up as I read aloud exclaiming things like, “Father Hennepin? Like Hennepin County?” It’s neat to drive by places that were in the book and contrasting it with Fritz’s world. My reason for the three stars is that the historical narratives were randomly and awkwardly inserted sometimes, and the whole book was a little dry. But it worked great as a short read aloud for upper elementary/middle schoolers, especially if you are learning about Minnesota state history.

[The Styling Librarian · Rating 4 out of 5]

Keystones of the Stone Arch Bridge by Carolyn Ruff - Historical Fiction, 3rd grade and up. ARC- Published April 15th, 2014 -
Great family read, reminded me of some other where you have a family with a tough situation, this one was that only two of five family members were able to emigrate and then save up enough money to bring over daughters and mother. It was a struggle to succeed and additionally refocus on earning money so that they could bring members over. The little boy in the story convinced a crew boss that he could do stonecutting with others and worked hard to be successful and not just discounted. I loved that cutting the stones and specifically finding keystones was connected a little with archaeology and history in addition to helping the family earn enough money for the travel costs. Lovely story, sometimes I was curious about the side story, I enjoyed it but it distracted me a little…. There was a little girl who was collecting porcupine quills which led to conversation fun, and projects… I understand that she provided an element of fun and play in an otherwise somber story, but I was a little distracted with it, maybe because I wanted to know more about her. I did love the authors notes at the end of the book, they were fantastic for filling the blanks to many questions.

[Linda · Rating 3 out of 5]

Reads like an Eric Larson for kids, so similar to nonfiction, but with tangential stories within.