Book details
The Littlest Voyageur
Description
A red squirrel stows away on a canoe to fulfill his dream of joining a group of voyageurs--men who paddle canoes filled with goods to a trading post thousands of miles away. A Finalist for the Minnesota Book AwardIt is 1792 and unbeknownst to a group of voyageurs traveling from Montreal to Grand Portage, an intrepid squirrel, Jean Pierre Petit Le Rouge, sneaks onto their canoe. Le Rouge is soon discovered because he can't contain his excitement--mon dieu he is so enthusiastic. The smells! The vistas! The comradery! The voyageurs are not particularly happy to have him, especially because Le Rouge rides, but he does not paddle. He eats, but he does not cook. He doesn't even carry anything on portages--sometimes it is he who has to be carried. He also has a terrible singing voice. What kind of voyageur is that?When they finally arrive at the trading post Le Rouge is in for a terrible shock--the voyageurs have traveled all those miles to collect beaver pelts. With the help of Monique, a smart and sweet flying squirrel, Le Rouge organizes his fur-bearing friends of the forest to ambush the men and try and convince them to quit being voyageurs. Written by a Newbery honor author, the book has over 20 black-and-white illustrations.
Age
7-10
Text complexity
beginner
Length
176 pages
Why to read
- Engaging Historical Fiction: 'The Littlest Voyageur' is a delightful historical fiction novel that transports readers back to the 18th century, offering a unique perspective on the fur trade era in North America through the eyes of a red squirrel. This engaging narrative provides an educational glimpse into the past while keeping readers entertained.
- Animal Adventure: The protagonist of the story is a charming red squirrel named Jean Pierre Petit Le Rouge, who joins a crew of voyageurs on a canoeing adventure. This anthropomorphic character adds a whimsical element to the story, making it a fun read for animal lovers and those who enjoy adventure tales.
- Cultural Insights: Through the journey of the littlest voyageur, readers gain insights into the French-Canadian culture, the lives of the voyageurs, and the indigenous peoples they encounter. The book offers a respectful and informative look at the cultural interactions and exchanges of the time period.
- Award-Winning Author: Margi Preus is a Newbery Honor-winning author known for her ability to craft compelling stories for young readers. Her expertise in storytelling is evident in 'The Littlest Voyageur,' making it a must-read for those who appreciate well-written children's literature with depth and heart.