Lucretia Ann on the Oregon Trail

by Ruth Gipson Plowhead

For men and women emigration to the Oregon country meant hardships and called for courage and resourcefulness; for children it meant fun and excitement, but called for no less bravery.  This story of a little girl crossing the plains with her family in a covered wagon train captures the romance and adventure of a child's life on the trail.  Set against a true historical background, the book gives an authentic and vivid picture of pioneer days.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction

250 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 1931

Reviews

[Gena Lott · Rating 3 out of 5]

I remember one of my elementary teachers (I think 3rd grade) read this to us and I just loved the historical aspect of the story. I read it again later myself (maybe 5th grade) and loved it even more. When I reread it as an adult, I realized how simple and melodramatic the story is. But for a child, it seemed such a romantic depiction of crossing the plains!

[Melody · Rating 3 out of 5]

An enjoyable read with a remarkably even-handed yet historically-accurate-feeling treatment of interactions with Indians. Lucretia Ann's cat manages to steal the show numerous times, getting her into trouble and adventures. There are some nice details about life on the road. It would be a fun book to read aloud and discuss with a small person.

[Jeanne Lorance · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read this series when I was a kid growing up in the Northwest. Interesting look at the westward movement through the eyes of a young girl. Wanted the set for my library and may re-read at some point. So many books so little time.