Realistically I don’t think I can rate this. 

Anyway, Libby actually isn’t a bad character. She’s a real person. She thinks mean things and does mean things and I think even as an adult that’s relatable. I think the history is interesting, though I can’t say I ever recall learning about this. I also like getting to see a little romance. Okayyy Pete, buying a girl a book.

I will say this brings up interesting conversations. Libby says General Sherman may be the tallest man in the army but she thinks he is small after hearing he thinks that they should kill all of the Sioux. I like that she thought for herself, because her dad didn’t seem bothered. She also wonders about Native Americans having citizenship and what happens if a child is half Native American and half white. They also spend some time in Utah and her and Ellie are so interested in the Mormons there. She sees Brigham Young and thinks he’s distinguished. 

I think this was interesting. I can see why I liked these so much as a child. But also like damn they are dark and dire. We get out first death in page 47. But I guess that’s reflective of the times.