It is time for first grade, and Amanda Pig is so excited because this year, she will know how to read. But when Amanda looks at her book, she recognizes the letters but not the words. Will she ever be able to read? Full color.

Nine-year-old Mary Ellen Todd, filled with the pioneer spirit, treks cross country in 1852 with her family in search of a better life. The Todds survive Indians and swollen rivers, but what will happen when mother has a new baby and winter arrives? Jean Van Leeuwen has written highly acclaimed book for both children and young adults, including Dear Mom, You're Ruining My Life.

After clearing enough Ohio forest to build a log cabin in 1803, Pa sets off for Pennsylvania to fetch the rest of the family, while brothers Daniel and Will stay behind. But when Pa doesn't return, the boys must survive the winter with only an axe, two knives, a sack of cornmeal, and their ability to improvise.