About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is curious about how kids lived before technology, or if they are preparing for a big move and feel anxious about the unknown. This non-fiction work provides a window into the daily lives of 19th-century children, covering everything from the grueling journey across the plains to the communal life of Indigenous tribes and the strict discipline of early schoolhouses. It is an excellent tool for building perspective and gratitude. Freedman uses authentic archival photographs to ground history in reality, making it feel less like a dry lesson and more like a family album. The book touches on themes of resilience, family responsibility, and cultural identity. While it addresses the hardships of pioneer and Indigenous life, it does so with a respectful, observational tone suitable for children ages 8 to 12. It is a perfect choice for parents wanting to foster a sense of historical empathy and an appreciation for the grit required of children in the past.
