Night of the Full Moon

Libbie Mitchell, a young girl living in 1840s Michigan, visits an Ojibwe Indian camp where her friend Fawn lives. What begins as a simple visit becomes an unexpected journey when a sudden storm hits. The story follows Libbie as she experiences Ojibwe customs, traditions, and daily life firsthand during her stay in the camp. She learns about their food, clothing, stories, and ways of surviving in the wilderness. Through Libbie's encounters at the camp, the novel explores themes of friendship across cultural boundaries, understanding between different communities, and the challenges of maintaining traditional ways of life in a changing America. The story provides a window into a specific moment in American history when two distinct cultures existed side by side.

Readers view this book as an approachable introduction to Michigan history for elementary school students. Parents and teachers note it works well for grades 3-5. Readers highlight: - Historical accuracy while remaining age-appropriate - Clear explanations of Native American and settler relations - Strong female protagonist that young readers relate to - Effective incorporation of Potawatomi customs and culture - Length suitable for one or two reading sessions Common criticisms: - Some scenes may frighten sensitive children - Limited character development - Simplistic resolution to conflicts Ratings: Goodreads: 4.0/5 (269 ratings) Amazon: 4.5/5 (31 ratings) "Perfect for teaching Michigan history to my fourth graders" - Teacher review on Amazon "My daughter was captivated but the scene with soldiers made her anxious" - Parent review on Goodreads The book appears on multiple elementary school reading lists and state history curricula.

Number the Stars by Lois Lowry A young girl helps her Jewish friend's family escape Nazi-occupied Denmark during World War II.

Sarah Bishop by Scott O’Dell A teenage girl survives alone in the wilderness during the American Revolution after losing her family.

The Devil's Arithmetic by Jane Yolen A modern girl is transported to 1942 Poland where she experiences life in a concentration camp.

Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O'Dell A Native American girl survives alone on an island for years after her tribe departs.

The Book Thief by Markus Zusak Death narrates the story of a German girl who steals books and helps hide a Jewish man during World War II.

🌕 Author Gloria Whelan has written more than 40 children's books and has won numerous awards, including the National Book Award for Young People's Literature. 🏹 The book is set during the Potawatomi Trail of Death in 1838, when Native Americans were forcibly relocated from Indiana to Kansas. 🌿 The story's main character, Libby Mitchell, is based on accounts of real pioneer children who were captured by Native American tribes during this period in American history. 🏞️ The Potawatomi people were skilled hunters and farmers who lived in the Great Lakes region for centuries before being forced to relocate. 📚 Night of the Full Moon is part of a series that includes Farewell to the Island and Next Spring an Oriole, all following young protagonists during significant moments in American history.