One Big Open Sky
In Mississippi in 1879, Lettie’s dad, Thomas, convinces her mother and siblings that they should pack and move far west to Nebraska, where they will be able to receive a plot of land and live free and independent. They pack up, carefully preparing their supplies, and join other Black neighbors, many former slaves, to form their own wagon train and become homesteaders like thousands of other Americans of the time. It is an immensely daunting task, but they delight in each other’s company despite the many challenges and obstacles awaiting them.
The journey is full of wonders but also hardships, risks from outlaws, swollen rivers, and hunger. Along the way the family experiences both tragedy and welcome surprise as they are joined by another young Black woman, Philomena, who has been promised a position as a teacher in a Nebraska school. The former neighbors become even closer along the way, and even their animals, mules Charly and Titus and crooked-eared dog Sutter, make their lives just a little bit more bearable through it all.
The verse format of the book took a bit of getting used to, but because the wonderful story shines through so brightly, I quickly adapted. The descriptions of the lands they pass, the personal thoughts of some of the main characters, and the delightful humor and sweetness of the banter among them charm the reader. In the final analysis, the entire book emphasizes the bonds of family, both immediate and extended. This exquisite novel is geared for children 8-12 years but can be cherished by readers of all ages. A classic, and in a perfect world it would be required reading in all elementary schools.
