Lewis and Papa: Adventure on the Santa Fe Trail

By Barbara M. Joosse

Lewis and his family live in a sturdy, stone house along the Wisconsin River. One day, a traveler happens by and spins stories about the Santa Fe Trail. And so begins Lewis and Papa's adventure. Set against the dramatic backdrop of the American West, Barbara Joosse, too, spins a gripping tale about fathers and sons; courage and tenderness; about the coming of age of a nation and the coming of age of a boy. For along the Santa Fe Trail, Lewis and Papa find more than an adventure. Amidst the buffalo stampedes and coyotes, the dark clouds of dust and heat, Lewis learns that being a man is more than bulging muscles and strength, and Papa learns that being tender is sometimes the most courageous act of all. Historically accurate details, illustrated maps, and a glossary of terms make this richly illustrated, poignant tale a coming of age story that will stir the minds and hearts of readers.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0811819590
• ISBN13: 9780811819596
• Release Date: April 1998
• Publisher: Chronicle Books
• Length: 40 Pages
• Weight: 1.10 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.5" x 11.0" x 9.5"
• Age Range: 4 to 8 years
• Grade Range: Preschool to Grade 3

Customer Reviews

Wonderful Father/Son Book!

We really enjoyed this book. One of many recommended by TruthQuest History curriculum for American History, it was a nice introduction to the Santa Fe Trail. The celebration of manhood in Lewis and Papa is wonderful. A man must be brave, although it is perfectly acceptable for him to be scared. A man does what must be done, although it is perfectly acceptable for him to shed a few tears when he must do something sad. In the Note from the Author, she asks, "How does a boy learn of his father's love? Is it more by words or actions?" Lewis and Papa is a book about action (specifically, action on the Santa Fe Trail in the 1800's), and a father's love for his son is evident in these actions (and in the beautiful paintings by Jon Van Zyle).

A boy grows to a man

Lewis accompanies his Papa on the trade route of the Santa Fe. While on the trail, Lewis discoveres what it means to be a man. The experiences that happen on the trail allow Lewis to grow in maturity as well as grow closer to his father. Interseting fictional account of life on the Santa Fe Trail.