On the Way Home
Little House Series
on Goodreads (10,335)
What’s inside...
Rose Wilder Lane, daughter of Laura and Almanzo Wilder, adds her own remembrances of the remarkable journey from South Dakota to Missouri that her mother recorded in a journal from the day the family began their travels. Illustrated with photos. In 1894, Laura Ingalls Wilder, her husband, Almanzo, and their daughter, Rose, packed their belongings into their covered wagon and set out on a journey from De Smet, South Dakota, to Mansfield, Missouri. They heard that the soil there was rich and the crops were bountiful -- it was even called 'the Land of the Big Red Apple.' With hopes of beginning a new life, the Wilders made their way to the Ozarks of Missouri. During their journey, Laura kept a detailed diary of the cities they passed through, the travelers they encountered on the way, the changing countryside and the trials of an often difficult voyage. Laura's words, preserved in this book, reveal her inner thoughts as she traveled with her family in search of a new home in Mansfield, where Rose would spend her childhood, where Laura would write her Little House books, and where she and Almanzo would remain all the rest of their happy days together.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-15
Length
120 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Laura Ingalls Wilder
Rose Wilder
Almanzo Wilder
Discussion points
How do you think Laura felt when she was traveling to her new home? Can you remember a time you felt the same way?
What new things did Laura discover on her journey? What would you like to discover on an adventure?
Laura saw many changes in the landscape as she traveled. What changes do you notice when we take trips?
Why is it important for Laura to have her family with her during the move? Who do you like having nearby when facing new experiences?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to compare their own experiences with Laura’s, making connections to the emotions and discoveries described in the book.
Ask open-ended questions that prompt your child to think deeper about the story and relate it to their own life.
Discuss the historical and geographical context of Laura’s journey to enhance comprehension and add educational value.
Use a map to trace Laura's journey, this visual aid might help your child grasp the concept of long-distance travel and geographical changes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance in the face of adversity
Explanation: Laura and her family encounter numerous challenges as they travel by covered wagon through uncharted territory. Despite the obstacles, the family continuously works together and never gives up hope.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of persisting through difficulties, whether it be completing a difficult school project or resolving conflicts with friends.
Example Lesson: Importance of family unity and support
Explanation: Throughout their journey, the Ingalls family relies on each other for emotional and physical support, highlighting the strength that can be found in familial bonds.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to appreciate and seek support from their own families during challenging times.
Example Lesson: Adaptability to change
Explanation: As the Ingalls move from place to place, they adapt to new environments and situations, showing resilience and flexibility.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be open and adaptable when they encounter new experiences or changes in their routine.
Example Lesson: Resourcefulness and problem-solving
Explanation: The family often has to come up with creative solutions to navigate through unknown territories and scarce resources.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think critically and creatively in solving problems they face in daily life.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for simple joys
Explanation: Despite the hardships, the Ingalls family finds happiness in small moments, whether it's gathering around for a story or observing the beauty of the landscape.
Real-World Application: It teaches children to find happiness in simple, everyday moments and to remain positive even when times are tough.