The Astonishing Journey of Teddy Bodain

If you are looking for an adventure story that will make you both laugh and cry, The Astonishing Journey of Teddy Bodain is a book you'll want to add to your personal library. Teddy (Theodora) Bodain, is a ten year old girl who is on her way to Florida with her family in the late nineteenth century. As they are traveling by wagon train, she writes letters to her best friend Martha. The whole book is comprised of the 130 letters she writes on her journeys.

The illustrations by Dave Olson, are as historically accurate, as they are well done. There are illustrations on every page spread.

Teddy's journey takes her from Mississippi to Florida encountering events joyful, humorous, and tragic. The love the Bodain family shares is beautiful to read. They brave river crossings, sickness and death, separation, and thievery. As Teddy recounts her experiences to her friend, you will see that she is a very brave little girl!

What I Like: This book is so hard to put down, a compelling read. There's a glossary at the end of the book that is so helpful. I found it very useful when I wasn't sure what linseed oil was! My little girls are too young for this story, but I cannot wait to read it with them when they are old enough. This is a special piece of literature.

What I Dislike: I really don't dislike anything about this book.

Overall Rating: Excellent

Age Appeal: According to the publisher, 8-12, but I thoroughly enjoyed it and would imagine that a teenager would find it very interesting.

Publisher Info: Buttery Moon Multimedia, 2009; ISBN:0979009456 ; Paperback, $10.95

Buy it Now from the author's website for $10.95.

Special Info: Parents may want to know that there is a death in the book. Teddy's baby brother dies of yellow fever. The whole event is handled compassionately in the book and is appropriate for its intended age appeal. Are you a teacher? On the author's website, there is a teacher's edition of the book that includes 130 lesson plans.