PRAIRIE WINTER

Like Geisert’s Prairie Summer and Lessons (2002, 2007), this sequel is set in 1950s South Dakota and is based on the author’s childhood experiences. This installment follows sixth-grader Rachel Johnson during a winter of furious snowstorms. Although Rachel is sure school will be closed and she will have to spend the blustery days doing farm chores, her father surprises her by arranging for Rachel and her two older sisters to stay in a hotel room in town so they can continue to go to school and band practice. Their parents and younger siblings are isolated at their rural home with impassable roads and not even a telephone to keep them in contact with the girls, who seem to manage incredibly well on their own. This definitely has the feel of a romanticized reminiscence: Conflict and character development are slim, but the sense of place is palpable. Little House on the Prairie fans might enjoy this one, particularly on a chilly day with a cozy cup of cocoa to keep them company. (Historical fiction. 8-12)