《书目》(Booklist)书评
Gr. 3^-5. Young Liza relates, in diary form, how her family journeys west from Illinois to Oregon in 1849. Traveling via Conestoga wagon, they join a wagon train, survive a buffalo stampede, observe the headstones of those who died along the trail, and trudge through snow-covered mountains before arriving at their destination. Mercati's style is straightforward and direct, and children who have difficulty reading will appreciate her use of simple vocabulary and short sentences. Large print, brief chapters, and frequent color illustrations add to the appeal for this audience. The author offers little character development or plot (beyond the obvious journey along the trail), making this best suited as a supplement to classroom history units. A good choice for teachers and others looking for a simplified approach to this topic. Appended with a map, a list of significant places and important dates, and a glossary. --Kay Weisman