Rinker Buck’s The Oregon Trail is the true story of two brothers who set out to recreate their ancestors’ journey along the original route of America’s first wagon train. In 1848, one thousand pioneers crossed the plains and mountains to establish a new life in Oregon Country. This epic journey was made possible by improvements in transportation-the invention of the covered wagon, steel plows that broke through prairie sod, and telegraph lines that linked East and West. Buck brings his readers along on this exciting adventure as he and his brother Nick travel back in time more than 150 years to experience for themselves what it was like to pioneer their way across America. They battle harsh weather conditions, treacherous rapids, hostile Native American tribesmen, and everything else that comes with crossing an untamed land. Along the way they meet interesting people (including Sacagawea)and learn about our country’s history firsthand . The Oregon Trail is not just a great work of nonfiction; it is also a moving tribute to America’s spirit of independence and pioneering determination.
For who is this book for ?
This book is for anyone who loves a good adventure story, and wants to learn more about America’s history.
Pros :
- The author’s note at the beginning of the book gives great context about why and how this journey was made.
- The writing is engaging, making for a quick and exciting read.
- This book provides an interesting look into American history that many readers may be unaware of.
Cons :
- The author spends too much time describing the equipment and supplies they brought with them, which can be dry and boring
- The brothers don’t encounter many interesting people or situations on their journey
- The ending is a little anticlimactic
Learn more about the author
Rinker Buck is the author of The Oregon Trail and has written for Outside, National Geographic Adventure, and other magazines. He lives in Sharon, Connecticut.
Reader Reviews
“Oregon Trail is the best book I’ve read in a long time. It’s well-researched, written with great wit and humor, and full of suspense.”
“If you love history, or if you just enjoy a good adventure story, then I highly recommend picking up a copy of The Oregon Trail. Rinker Buck has done an amazing job recreating this important piece of American history.”
“In Buck’s hands, the Oregon Trail becomes a metaphor for American democracy-a noble undertaking made possible by cooperation and common effort.”
“This book is a winner! Rinker Buck takes you on an adventure of a lifetime as he and his brother, Nick, attempt to travel the Oregon Trail exactly as their ancestors did in 1848. The route has been updated with modern amenities such as satellite phones and computers, but the dangers and difficulties remain very real. From hostile Native Americans to treacherous rapids, this journey is not for the faint of heart. But it’s also filled with beauty: encounters with grizzly bears and buffalo herds, spectacular vistas of untamed wilderness stretching out before you like nothing you’ve ever seen before. This book was so well written I felt like I was right there beside them experiencing everything first-hand. It gave me a whole new appreciation for all those brave pioneers who risked everything – including their lives – in order to build a better life for themselves and their families.”
