About the Book Embarking on a new life, Zoe and her family journey west to the Nebraska Territory in the 1880s. But when they build their soddie, Zoe has never seen Papa so happy or Mama so sad. Full-color illustrations. Book Synopsis Eager to start a new life in a new land, Zoe and her family journey west to the Nebraska Territory in the 1800s. When Zoe and her family arrive at their claim, nothing distinguishes it from the miles and miles of surrounding prairie. Even after they build their soddie, the home cant be seen from any distance. Zoe has never seen Papa so happy or Mama so sad. But when she takes a trip to the small prairie town with Papa, Zoe sees something that might make a difference to their new soddie, and to Mamas life, too. Bunting tells an poignant story, which is made even more affecting by its lovely illustrations. -- School Library Journal (starred review) Review Quotes Bunting tells a poignant story, which is made even more affecting by its lovely illustrations.-School Library Journal (starred review) A solid choice for read-alouds, this may also be used with older, reluctant readers or students learning about the westward movement. -Booklist