Book details
The Devil's Paintbox
Description
When orphans Aiden and Maddy Lynch first meet trailrider Jefferson J. Jackson in the spring of 1865, theyre struggling to survive on their familys drought-ravaged Kansas farm. So when Jackson offers an escapea 2000-mile journey across the roughest country in the worldAiden knows its their only choice.They say there are a hundred ways to die on the Oregon Trail, and the long wagon journey is broken only by catastrophe: wolf attacks, rattlesnakes, deadly river crossings, Indians, and the looming threat of smallpox, the devils paint. Through it all, Aiden and Maddy and a hundred fellow travelers move forward with a growing hope, and the promise of a new life in the Washington Territory. But one question haunts them: who will survive the journey?In an adventure-filled and historically accurate new novel, Victoria McKernan captures both the peril and the stunning beauty of the frontier West. Shackletons Stowaway (Truly thrilling according to The Washington Post) was Victoria McKernans first novel for young adults. She lives in Washington, D.C..
Age
13-14
Text complexity
intermediate
Length
214 pages
Why to read
- Historical Insight: 'The Devil's Paintbox' provides readers with a vivid portrayal of life in the post-Civil War era, offering a rich historical context that can deepen one's understanding of American history, particularly the challenges faced during westward expansion and the impact of diseases like smallpox on both settlers and Native American populations.
- Engaging Adventure: The novel presents an exciting and harrowing journey of two siblings, Aiden and Maddy Lynch, as they travel from Kansas to Washington State. Their adventure is filled with challenges and perils that keep readers engaged and eager to find out what happens next.
- Character Development: Victoria McKernan crafts complex and relatable characters that readers can connect with. As the protagonists overcome obstacles and grow throughout the story, readers experience a range of emotions and can learn valuable life lessons about resilience, courage, and the importance of family.
- Moral and Ethical Themes: The book delves into important moral and ethical questions, such as the struggle for survival, the choices one must make in desperate times, and the clash of cultures between settlers and Native Americans. These themes encourage readers to reflect on their own values and the history of moral dilemmas in America.