Book details
My Name Is America: The Journal Of Douglas Allen Deeds, Donner Party Expedition, 1846
Description
Douglas Deeds, a fifteen-year-old orphan, keeps a journal of his travels by wagon train as a member of the ill-fated Donner Party, which became stranded in the Sierra Nevada mountains in the winter of 1846-47.
Age
8-12
Text complexity
proficient
Length
155 pages
Why to read
- Historical Insight: The book provides a vivid and personal perspective on the Donner Party Expedition, one of the most harrowing and infamous journeys in American history. Reading it can give you a deeper understanding of the challenges and experiences faced by pioneers during westward expansion.
- Engaging Narrative: Written in the form of a journal by the fictional character Douglas Allen Deeds, the book offers an engaging narrative that brings history to life. It allows readers to connect with the characters and events on a personal level, making the historical context more relatable and interesting.
- Educational Value: For students and history enthusiasts, the book serves as an educational tool that presents historical facts in a format that is easier to digest and remember. It encourages readers to explore the complexities of pioneer life, survival, and decision-making in extreme circumstances.
- Literary Merit: Authored by W. R. Philbrick, a respected writer known for his ability to craft compelling historical fiction, the book is well-written and researched. It provides not only an educational read but also a quality literary experience that showcases the author's storytelling skills.