Homesteading: Settling America's Heartland - Hardcover

Dorothy Hinshaw Patent has written more than 135 books, mostly for children including When the Wolves Returned and Dogs on Duty, both designated ALA Notable Children's Books. She lives with her husband on the edge of the woods in Missoula, Montana.After graduating from the University of Montana with a degree in history, William Muñoz went on to photo-illustrate more than a hundred children's books since 1981. He lives with his family in Montana.

Homesteading: Settling America's Heartland describes the trials, tragedies, and triumphs of the brave pioneer families who set out into the unknown to create a home on the vast, desolate grasslands of the Great Plains. The Homestead Act of 1862 offered, practically free, a 160-acre plot to anyone willing to develop it. Hundreds of men, women, and children took advantage of the opportunity to build a home, a farm, and a while new life on the western prairie.The homesteader's life could be harsh. The Great Plains had few resources, unpredictable weather, and numerous dangers. Nevertheless, many stalwart Americans and immigrants took up the challenge. Many failed, but others survived and eventually thrived, opening the way for generations of Westerners to come.Kids and adults alike will delight in this engaging short history, beautifully illustrated with full-color photographs by William Muñoz.