The Secret Valley

I love Clyde Robert Bulla's stories, and, more importantly, so do my children. In simple and accessible language, Bulla tells fascinating - often historical - stories that will keep your child riveted to the page. The Secret Valley is set during the California Gold Rush, and relates the adventures of the Davis family (and their cat, Nugget) as they travel from Missouri by covered wagon to seek their fortune in the golden fields of California. The journey is difficult, with rivers, mountains, and prairies to cross, and regular encounters with Indians. Once they reach California, they make friends and begin their search for gold. They learn that prospecting is hard work, and there is no guarantee of success. In the end, the Davis family does not strike it rich in a monetary sense, but they find they have what they truly want - a new home in a beautiful new land. Highly recommended, along with anything else written by Clyde Bulla.