Author: Marian R. Carlson
Illustrator: EmmaWildfeuer
Publisher: iUniverse
ISBN: 978-1-6632-0060-0

 “God be praised for this new discovery! I can’t wait to see our new home. It sounds perfect,” Sam writes in his diary in Marian R. Carlson’s children’s book, The Adventures of Plimouth Plantation

~ What ~
This oversized fifty-four-page paperback targets elementary to middle school-aged children and readers who like learning about historical eras. With no profanity or overtly scary scenes, it would best be read to beginner readers based on some complicated words. A few colorful illustrations and photographs cover the pages with a nicely sized font wording against a white background. The ending includes the mystery of William Bradford’s manuscript, other books by the author, the author’s note with acknowledgments, and biographies of the writer and illustrator.

 This fictional tale is about a little mouse named Sam who writes in his diary about going on The Mayflower to America. Beginning in September 1620 from Plimoth, England, the story not only covers the ship, its weight, and precious human cargo, but it also has details about Separatists, Master Christopher Jones, John Carver, Myles Standish, William Bradford, Chief Massasoit, Squanto, and others as the Pilgrims and crew make America their home. As Sam’s relative reads the narrative, there are inserts of other diaries and stories about the topic.



 While the book contains long paragraphs and three- to four-syllable words, it would have to be read out loud to new readers. Some may think its contents may be too advanced for young children and the pictures are simplistic. Others may not like the reference to God and prayer, yet these were vitally important and part of day-to-day life during the time.

 I wish more creative books like this one were available that promoted historical events to be used as educational tools for teaching children. Including an index of the mentioned individuals would help if using the book for a resource.

 If you are looking for a fun and educational read about how America began, viewed through the eyes of a tiny mouse, this is engaging and entertaining while teaching about life as a Pilgrim.

 Thanks to LAVIDGE and the author for this complimentary book that I am under no obligation to review.