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Danny and Life on Bluff Point Format: Paperback
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Book Description Danny and Life on Bluff Point: The Blizzard of '95 is the second in a series of historical novels for children. In this installment it is January of 1895 and ten-year-old Danny and his family are enjoying outdoor activities of ice skating and sledding. Farm work does not stop for cold weather and Danny does his expected chores even though his heavy winter clothes make hard work more difficult for him. Miss Spaulding, the school teacher, has come to live with the family for the winter. While returning home from a trip to his Grandpa's blacksmith shop, he and his cousin Jay are caught in the start of a three-day blizzard and have a miserable ride home. Their return trip was delayed by a detour to do some forbidden exploring. For his failure to heed Grandpa Scott's warnings Danny is assigned extra work. He and his family are rewarded for his efforts in several ways. Danny learns the importance of following family instructions and to not judge people until you know them. Reviews Timelss Tale
of Traditional Life in Early America In the Blizzard of `95, Miss Spaulding, the children's teacher, comes to live with the lee family for three months. In their community, each family took turns at housing the teacher and making her feel at home. At first, Danny isn't really happy about the teacher being at his house. He is sure that the boys at school will tease him. He is also not very happy about all of the extra chores that will need to be done. Danny finds out that although there is more work to be done, he now has an opportunity to show his father that he can take on more responsibility. Also, Miss Spaulding encourages Danny's interest in history and even tries to help him in his search for the town founder's cabin. The big event in the book is a huge blizzard in which something very sad happens.
Novel is Rich
in Details Although life steadily advances with a generous note of familiarity for Danny and his family, changes to their normal routine enter with a burst of excitement. Miss Spaulding, the local schoolteacher, comes to live with them on their farm at Bluff Point during the winter season. The addition of one more female to their household causes Danny some concern as well as a few extra chores. Having her stay in their home provided an interesting look at the caring relationship that existed between teachers and their students. Readers will enjoy the interaction between family members during meal times as well as periods of tension. In a household of children, arguments and teasing were normal, and it was enlightening to observe the order that prevailed in their home. Farm life, with its numerous chores and responsibilities, presented a strong contrast to moments of fun. The trials and terrors of a three-day blizzard blow through the story, bringing a true sense of the perils that existed. Following the storm, hard work and an attitude of perseverance kept Danny and his family very busy. Throughout these pages, readers will get a better understanding of this time period, while glimpsing some moral teaching that helped shape the lives of a past generation. Holds Children's
Attention Follow the life of Danny, as Miss Spaulding comes into his home. A home dominated by females, according to Danny. What happens? YouŐll have to read the story to find out. I think youŐll like it.
The novel is written through the eyes of Danny. It is well written and easy to read. The settings and characters are believable and well crafted, with good descriptions. One can see the farm and the animals clearly. The dialogue and exchanges between Danny and Pa are well written as well. The chapters are short, to hold childrenŐs attention.
Mary Ellen, trained in biology, retired after a career in which she did research for thirty-three years. She lives with her family in the Finger Lakes Region in upstate New York. Her family goes back four generations in this area. Her childrenŐs historical novels take place in this region. Mary Ellen is an active outdoor person. SheŐs into gardening, water sports and bike riding.
This is characterized as a childrenŐs book. I would say the reading age, is about eleven or twelve years of age. I found the read refreshing. There is some moral teaching of Danny by Ma and Pa, mostly by Pa, but not preachy. It harkens back to another time. I happen to be familiar with some teachings like this from my parents and grandparents. The only problem I see for young readers, is the word "Canandaigua." Young readers may have some difficulty pronouncing "Canandaigua." I would highly recommend this book for children.
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Mary Ellen Lee is a children's author of historical novels. Her books are targeted for children age 8 - 12. The author enjoys writing childrens books and feels there is a great need for American historical books written for this age group. You can't understand current events if you don't know the past. This series of childrens novels will include New York State and national history, overcoming a challenge, solving conflicts, importance of family and neighbor cooperation, the need for setting goals, and do unto others as you would have them do unto you. These children's books will show students that reading historical novels can be fun and informative. |
