Who Would Like This Book:
If you love spirited tales of adventure, strong heroines, and pioneer life - especially if you're a fan of the Little House books - you’ll find plenty to enjoy in Caddie Woodlawn. Caddie’s tomboy antics, set against the backdrop of 1860s Wisconsin, make for a vibrant, sometimes hilarious, and always heartfelt coming-of-age story. The family dynamics are warm and Caddie’s journey of self-discovery and bravery resonates across generations. Kids who like outdoor escapades or stories of self-reliant girls (and their brothers!) will be glued to the pages.
Who May Not Like This Book:
Modern readers may find some of the dated language and attitudes toward Native Americans jarring or even offensive, with terms and stereotypes that reflect the era in which the book was written. Some adults also find the episodic structure a bit meandering, and if you crave a tightly woven plot or more nuanced character development, you might feel underwhelmed. Fans of more current perspectives on frontier history or those seeking an unproblematic read may want to pair this with context or other resources.
About:
Caddie Woodlawn is a story set in the frontier of Wisconsin, following the adventures of a tomboy named Caddie and her engaging interactions with her family. The book is based on the author's ancestor and portrays Caddie's unconventional upbringing, her strong relationship with her father, and the hilarious adventures she embarks on with her brothers. The plot unfolds in a fast-paced manner, filled with humor and silliness, making it a great read for those who enjoy stories of family dynamics and outdoor escapades.
The book captures the essence of 1800s' Wisconsin frontier life through the eyes of Caddie, a free-spirited and adventurous girl who defies societal norms to live a life filled with excitement and exploration. Brink's writing style is praised for its ability to draw readers into the story, creating engaging and realistic characters that resonate with the audience. The narrative is a blend of humor, warmth, and nostalgia, making it equally enjoyable for both children and adults, with themes of home, comfort, and happiness woven throughout the book.
Genres:
Topics:
Notes:
Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
Content warnings relate to themes of racial stereotypes and historical violence, particularly in the context of Native American portrayal and settler conflicts.
From The Publisher:
"A spirited story that has plenty of action and strength." - Horn Book
Caddie Woodlawn, which has been captivating young readers since 1935, was awarded the John Newbery Medal for the most distinguished contribution to American literature for children. In her new foreword, Carol Ryrie Brink lovingly recalls the real Caddie, who was her grandmother, and tells how she often "sat spellbound, listening, listening!" as Caddie told stories of her pioneer childhood. Children everywhere will love redheaded Caddie with her penchant for pranks. Scarcely out of one scrape before she is into another, she refuses to be a "lady," preferring instead to run the woods with her brothers. Whether she is crossing the lake on a raft, visiting an Indian camp, or listening to the tales of the circuit rider, Caddie's adventures provide an exciting and authentic picture of life on the Wisconsin frontier in the 1860s. And readers will discover, as Caddie learns what growing up truly means, that it is not so very different today.
Ratings (19)
Incredible (1) | |
Loved It (7) | |
Liked It (8) | |
It Was OK (3) |
Reader Stats (50):
Read It (20) | |
Want To Read (12) | |
Not Interested (18) |
What can you read after
Caddie Woodlawn?
About the Author:
Carol Ryrie Brink was the author of many books for young readers, including Caddie Woodlawn's Family, the companion volume to Caddie Woodlawn, and Baby Island.
When you click the Amazon link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commision, at no cost to you.
