The third book in a series of three, loosely based on author Bonnie Geisert's own childhood experiences growing up on a farm in the American Midwest of the 1950's, I really enjoyed Prairie Winter (and hope to soon be able to read the other two books, which unfortunately, are not available at my local library, Prairie Summer and Lessons).

Both entertaining and poignant, Prairie Winter is a real, slice-of-life description of what life was like (or rather what life often could be like) in the small farming communities of the American Midwest (not all that long ago), and how severe winters could not only be dangerous, but could strand farmers and even whole communities/towns for months on end. Just imagine having to live apart from your family in a hotel room for months, just to be able to attend school.

Bonnie Geisert has done a truly remarkable job, not only showing, depicting realistic, authentic-seeming scenarios and episodes, she has also managed to successfully capture the voice of young Rachel (the twelve-year-old narrator), as well as the dynamics of Rachel's family and the dynamics of both school and farming life. Although the novel does not show all that much narrative tension (except perhaps when the school bus breaks down during a blizzard), this is a wonderful book of historical fiction (and one that is even loosely based on fact), a poignant story that not only shows the importance of family, but also the importance of community, of how neighbours help one another in times of need. I know my review is likely not even remotely adequate, but Prairie Winter is one of those books I find very difficult to review, simply because the book feels just so special, so heartwarming and thought-provoking. Very highly recommended (and not just for children). ( )

6th-grader Rachel Johnson lives on a remote prairie farm with no phone. So Cresband school to her means connection to the other students and the town. But a winter storm strands Rachel on the farm. She is surprised when her dad agrees to fly his three eldest daughters to town so they can continue the school year. But they must board in a hotel with no parents, no rules and no chores. Will Rachel ever be able to return to farm life after this?

Reviewed by hoopsielv for TeensReadToo.com

Rachel and her sisters are country girls in their small South Dakota town. Each day they take the long bus ride to school. Rachel enjoys all that school offers: friends, a good teacher, and music lessons. Her life is in the town, not at home with all her chores.

It all changes during the winter of 1956. Severe storms threaten the area and close school many times. Rachel prays for school each day instead of being stuck shoveling and working with the livestock. She can't even call her friends since her dad insists on not getting a telephone!

The decision is made to allow to the girls to stay in town so they can attend school during this snowy time. They stay at the hotel and it's a great adventure! Who wouldn't want cheeseburgers, fries, and pie?

However, Rachel soon realizes that the grass isn't always greener on the other side of the fence. She misses her parents and younger sister, Susie, who had to stay behind. How long will this winter last?

This is a heartwarming story where the theme "there's no place like home" shines through. It is the sequel to the books PRAIRIE SUMMER and LESSONS. The novel is based on the author's true adventures as a child in South Dakota. I highly recommend this book! ( )