About This Book
This gripping historical fiction novel, part of the popular 'I Survived' series, plunges readers into the harrowing true events of the Children's Blizzard of 1888. It follows John Hale, an 11-year-old boy who has recently moved to the Dakota Territory, as he and his schoolmates are caught completely off guard by a sudden, deadly winter storm. The book vividly portrays the extreme challenges of survival against the elements, highlighting themes of courage, resilience, and the power of friendship. It's an excellent choice for middle-grade readers interested in history, adventure, and stories of overcoming adversity.
When John Hale's parents moved from Chicago to a farm in the Dakota Territory in the late 1880s, he was not happy (too hot in summer, too cold in winter, and that is just the beginning); but after a year, and now eleven, he has settled in and made some friends at school--but when a sunny day in January 1888 turns abruptly into a deadly blizzard he will need all his strength and courage to survive what became known to history as The Children's Blizzard.
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Scary Scenes
Character Death
Discussion Prompts
1
What qualities did John show that helped him survive the blizzard? How can we use those qualities in our own challenges?
2
How did the setting of the Dakota Territory in 1888 make the blizzard particularly dangerous?
3
What would you do if you were caught in a sudden, severe storm like the one in the book?
4
The book is based on a real historical event. What did you learn about the Children's Blizzard that surprised you?
5
How important was friendship and teamwork in John's survival?
External Reviews
More in I Survived
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