Lewis and Papa: Adventure on the Santa Fe Trail

We really enjoyed this book. One of many recommended by TruthQuest History curriculum for American History, it was a nice introduction to the Santa Fe Trail. The celebration of manhood in Lewis and Papa is wonderful. A man must be brave, although it is perfectly acceptable for him to be scared. A man does what must be done, although it is perfectly acceptable for him to shed a few tears when he must do something sad. In the Note from the Author, she asks, "How does a boy learn of his father's love? Is it more by words or actions?" Lewis and Papa is a book about action (specifically, action on the Santa Fe Trail in the 1800's), and a father's love for his son is evident in these actions (and in the beautiful paintings by Jon Van Zyle).

Lewis accompanies his Papa on the trade route of the Santa Fe. While on the trail, Lewis discoveres what it means to be a man. The experiences that happen on the trail allow Lewis to grow in maturity as well as grow closer to his father. Interseting fictional account of life on the Santa Fe Trail.