BOOK REPORT TUESDAY

"Once On This Island" by Gloria Whelan
Product Description(Amazon.com)
When war erupts between England and America in 1812, it brings change and uncertainty—even to Michigan's remote Mackinac Island. For young Mary O'Shea, the hardest change is the departure of her father, who leaves Mackinac to join the American Army. With her sister and brother, Mary must tend the farm, deal with the hardships of British occupation, and hope for the safe return of their father.
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Paperback: 192 pages
Publisher: HarperCollins (August 9, 1996)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0064406199
ISBN-13: 978-0064406192

MY THOUGHTS: It is 1812 and on the island of Mackinac the English have taken the fort. Mary is telling this story of her family's life on the island. Her father won't take the oath of loyalty to the English so he leaves to fight with the Americans in Detroit. That leaves Mary, Angelique and Jacques to tend to the farm. Mary love the farm, Angelique and Jacques don't. They all three work hard to keep the farm up for their father. They endure hardships when supply's start dwindling. They even have to bring their cow into the home to keep thieves from stealing her. Their father is gone for 3 years and finally returns to his farm. Wonderful story from this author. I enjoyed reading about their life.

MY RATING: 8-12