Book Thoughts: Ranger in Time 01: Rescue on the Oregon Trail (Messner)

• first in a historical fiction series with a time traveling dog
• follows a family who travels the Oregon Trail, headed for the Willamette Valley
• convo: a girl’s parents die on the trail, Mormons mentioned a few times
• mentions several real cities and sites, such as Chimney Rock

Type: chapter book
Ages: 8*-12
Author: Kate Messner
Illustrator: McMorris, Kelley

*Having read farther into the series, I’m most comfortable giving an “8-12” age range overall; however, this first one would be fine for seven-, maybe even six-year-olds, depending on the death situation that occurs as well as one particularly intense scene involving water. The second book in the series has more violence that I think is more appropriate for 8+.

This is a nice little series! I haven’t read all of them, but I’ll link below to the ones that I have. If you have a reluctant reader, these might have just enough adventure to grab hold. It would make a great addition to American History studies as Messner seems to do good research for her books, which I appreciate. Her notes in the back include further reading suggestions and other information.

Review for Book 2: Danger in Ancient Rome
Review for Book 3: Long Road to Freedom
Review for Book 4: Race to the South Pole
Review for Book 5: Journey Through Ash and Smoke
Review for Book 6: Escape from the Great Earthquake