Chapter Eleven

Until this point in the story, all the Indians the Todd family had encountered had been friendly, and Father said that the Indians in this chapter were not on the warpath with the whites.  Why then, did this band of Indians harass and trouble the Todds and Grants?  Be sure to explain yourself fully.

Chapter Eleven

On page 108, Mary Ellen says, "We had gone about five or six miles when Father sent John on ahead to look for a nooning place."

What do you think "nooning" means, and why do you think that?

Historic Sites on the Oregon Trail

Click on the link to learn more about some of the landmarks that Mary Ellen's family passed on their journey: Historic Sites on the Oregon Trail.

Chapter Ten

In each of the last two chapters, the travelers faced great adversity, even having to face the possibility of death.  How do you think these experiences might impact their choices as they continue their journey?  As always, be sure to explain yourself thoroughly.

Wagon Train Crossing the Platte River 1840s-1850s

Chapter Eight

There were a few instances of conflict in this chapter. With regard to slowing down or pressing on, which group of travelers do you think made the best decision? Please explain your thinking.

Chapter Eight

On page 73, Mary Ellen tells us that Louvina admonished her. Please reread this passage and explain what you think "admonish" means.

Chapter Seven

On page 70, Mary Ellen said that riding the Grant's horses "made a nice change in the monotony of our days."

What do you think "monotony" means?

Chapter Seven

After reading this chapter, do you feel that Mary Ellen is justified in feeling afraid of the Indians they encounter? Please explain yourself thoroughly.

Chapter Six

How do you think Mary Ellen feels about her family's current situation?  Why do you think her father is so determined?

Chapter Six

By the end of this chapter, after they make it across the river, Mary Ellen is certain that her family will not be going back to Arkansas.  Do you think they made the right decision?  What about all the other families that turned back -- what do you think about their choice?

Chapter Five

On page 51, Mary Ellen is amazed by what her father did as the two wagon trains raced for the bridge.  Why was she amazed by what he did?

Why do you think her "gentle, patient father, who did not believe in violence, who could not be goaded into a fight, who never even raised his voice to correct a child" did what he did?

Independence, Missouri in the Early 1850s

The trail began at the old Independence Landing north of Independence, Missouri.  The center of activity in the small town of Independence was the bustling square. Most of the new pioneers camped a mile or two from the square and were busily purchasing supplies needed for their four to five month trek. Those with horses or mules left first so they could feed upon the shorter grasses. The majority with powerful and durable oxen left two weeks later because cattle have a different dentition than horses.

Chapter Four

What are we learning about Mary Ellen's father's personality?  What kind of man is he?  What do you think about him?  Be sure to use evidence from the text to support your thinking.

Chapter Three

We are beginning to see some differences in personality between Mary Ellen and Louvina.  How do you see those differences, and how might they have an impact on the family's journey?

Chapter Three

On page 27, John uses an ox bow for a chair. An ox bow is part of a yoke. A yoke is a shaped wooden crosspiece bound to the necks of a pair of oxen (or occasionally to horses). It is held on the animals' necks by an ox bow, from which it gets its name. The ox bow is usually U-shaped and also transmits force from the animals' shoulders. A swivel between the animals, beneath the centre of the yoke, attaches to the pole of a vehicle or to chains (traces) used to drag a load.

Chapter Two

Was there anything that the Todd family packed for their journey that surprised you?  Is there anything you would have chosen to bring (if you were there in 1852) that they did not?

Chapter Two

Please revisit chapter two in order to effectively respond to this: As Mary Ellen's family prepares to set off for Oregon, she seems to feel quite conflicted.  Try to put yourself in her place.  What might you be feeling at this moment?