Grandmother’s Bell And The Wagon Train 1849

In 1849 over 25,000 people emigrated to California as part of the overland journey and most of them walked, even the children. Life on a wagon train was hard work, but every day was still a great adventure for these pioneers. Ride along for a day with Crystal and Johnny and their family as they travel across the wild west as part of a wagon train. When the contents of their covered wagon must be thrown away to lighten the load, Grandmother insists that her brass school bell be kept. After their horse spooks and runs away, Johnny and Crystal are able to find their way back to the wagon train when Grandmother rings her bell.

This story is based on an actual incident in the author's family. The book is illustrated with oil paintings by Carol Mathis, and it contains fun facts and a bibliography. Barsotti's research included her own family's history, interviews with historians (especially Jack Clough), and the reading of many diaries and books of this period. This book is recommended by the California State Sesquicentennial Committee. It was chosen as Best Children's Book by the Sacramento Publishers Association.

Calif Dept of Education Recommended Resources K-12 Calif To Statehood & Beyond 2002

Grandmother's Bell and the Wagon Train, 1849. When the contents of their covered wagon must be thrown away to lighten the load, Grandmother insists that her brass school bell be kept. After their horse spooks and runs away, Johnny and Crystal are able to find their way back to the wagon train when Grandmother rings her bell. This story is based on an actual incident in the author's family. The book is illustrated with oil paintings by Carol Mathis, and it contains fun facts and a bibliography.

Review from Parent Council Ltd.

"Approaching the crossing of a mountain range, Johnny and Crystal's grandfather is forced to leave family heirlooms by the side of the trail - but not grandmother's bell. She is a teacher and will not leave it behind! As the readers follow one day's journey on the wagon train, they will discover what it meant to "go west" in the 1800's. Historical notes are included at the end of the book. (The most interesting is a list of recommended food provisions for such a trip.) Bright oil illustrations will please young readers." 8-10

El Dorado County Sesquicentennial Committee

Approved by El Dorado County Sesquicentennial Committee/ Received gold seal of approval - "Gold Rush - Statehood"

$6.95 each