The Gold Rush Kid (utgåvan 2008)

Reviewed by hoopsielv for TeensReadToo.com

When their mother dies, Billy and his sister, Edna, feel they have no choice but to find their father. He left the family to go to the Klondike to find gold. Ed disguises herself as a young man and the two set off on the rough trail.

They soon meet a fellow traveler named Jack. Jack is headed for gold country, too, but his partner had second thoughts. Billy saves Jack from the dangerous Dyea River and the trio continues their journey.

After locating their father, the kids and Jack find an abandoned cabin to use as a shelter. There is also a set of sled dogs and Billy becomes fast friends with the lead dog and names her Persey. Times are tough, though, and the dogs must be sold to make it through the freezing winter.

Billy misses his dogs terribly and also feels like he needs to give his mother a proper gravestone. He's got a major decision to make: stay with his family or go back to Skagway alone. Is he strong enough for whatever he decides?

This was a very good book about a time period that changed the lives of pioneers. The story is told from Billy's point of view. The author obviously did her research to help make this novel realistic. This book would be a nice read for junior high students on up and could also be an enjoyable read-aloud for a family or classroom. ( )