Little House in the Big Woods Read-Aloud Edition

Little House in the Big Woods (Little House, #1) | Laura Ingalls Wilder

1. The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue
2. Samantha Irby - I tried and I just don't get her humor, it comes across as whiny to me.
3. So many! I spent my teen years raiding my moms bookshelves. Lots of Sandra Brown. Lord of The Rings was read multiple times.
@TheSpineView

Wanna play @DebbieGrillo , @DinoMom , @KateReadsYA

TheSpineView Loved

The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue

5mo

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BethM

Little House in the Big Woods (Little House, #1) | Laura Ingalls Wilder

1- more rural the better
2- I want to live in the middle of nowhere lol. #two4tuesday @TheSpineView

Sace I would love to live in the middle of nowhere! As long as I have indoor plumbing and internet! 7mo

TheSpineView I get you on the rural. Thanks for playing! 7mo

Avanders You‘re so much like my bestie, who lives in gb, loves little house, and also wishes she lived in the middle of nowhere! Being a city girl myself, very rural feels like the middle of nowhere 😁 Though I have to admit, I love that peace… (oh, And she also lives in wisco…) (edited) 7mo

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BethM @Avanders having to work in Milwaukee is sufficient for me 😂 when we go to Canada we‘re 30 mins from civilization and even then it‘s the size of a suburb. It‘s beautiful. 7mo

Avanders It does sound beautiful! Have you read any of the 3 Pines books? I *would* like to retire there… 😉 7mo

BethM @Avanders I have not. Aren‘t those like sci-fi/horror lol 7mo

Avanders @BethM lol 😂 no - maybe you‘re thinking of wayward pines? Wait you did read the first one and I think you didn‘t love it 🤔

Still Life: A Chief Inspector Gamache Novel

7mo

BethM @Avanders yeah I was totally thinking of the Blake Crouch series lol 7mo

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annahenke

Little House in the Big Woods (Little House, #1) | Laura Ingalls Wilder

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#wintergames #teamreindeergames finished this children‘s classic for the umpteenth time - I always read it around Christmas!

26 pts.

mabell How cozy! 11mo

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RedxoHearts

Little House in the Big Woods (Little House, #1) | Laura Ingalls Wilder

1. Definitely! I used to make one under the kitchen table. Though more often I made a cozy little cave in my moms big walk-in closet growing up. She always knew where to find me.

2. I can think of a bunch of options for this question. I reread the Little House series often growing up

@Thespineview #Two4Tuesday

TheSpineView Thanks for playing! Happy Tuesday! 13mo

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Veebee

Little House in the Big Woods | Laura Ingalls Wilder

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What a del8ght it is to get lost in someone's childhood, at a time when life was made of hard work and simple pleasures and when humans lived in sync with nature's cycles.

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Crystal83

Little House in the Big Woods (Turtleback School & Library) | Laura Ingalls Wilder

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I finished listening to the audiobook. I love this series!!! This is a reread of the series. I own the books of this series. This was my childhood. My grandmother would read the books to my siblings and I before we would go to sleep at night. I rated this book a 5 out of 5 stars!!!

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ahoffkosik

Little House in the Big Woods (Little House, #1) | Laura Ingalls Wilder

Cozy up under your favorite blanket with some maple syrup candies, because this week‘s LITTLE HOUSE IN THE BIG WOODS episode of my podcast is an even bigger treat than Pa‘s fiddle stylings. Bestselling author and podcaster Jo Piazza is on the show to talk about the first installment in the beloved, complicated Little House series. ❄️ Listen at the link in my bio!

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CocoReads

Little House in the Big Woods 75th Anniversary Edition | Laura Ingalls Wilder, Garth Williams

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Still a favorite of mine. #SeriesLove2023 #JoyousJanuary. Fills a couple of prompts for my many reading chsllenges this year. @Andrew65

Tamra My chapter book reading life began here. ❤️ 2y

CocoReads @Tamra pretty sure mine did too. These, the boxcar children, encyclopedia brown are what I remember from this age. Shortly after that I discovered Nancy Drew, The Hardy Boys, Judy Blume, Trixie Beldon. And I just took off from there. 2y

Andrew65 A great series of books, well done. 2y

Tamra @CocoReads echo Trixie Beldon! My grandmother gave me books in both series. I wish I could thank her now. 2y

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CocoReads

Little House in the Big Woods (Little House, #1) | Laura Ingalls Wilder

I‘m pretty sure a childhood dog chewed on this. I got the whole set for Christmas in 78 (when I was 8). I thought I‘d re-read them as part of #serieslove2023. Additionally, I think it fills a prompt or two on some of my other reading challenges this year. Check out the low low price of $1.99. Those were the days!

TEArificbooks There is a buddy read group reading a chapter a day of the whole series. We are on farmer boy now. #littlehouse 2y

CocoReads @TEArificbooks that‘s pretty cool. Idk what pace I‘ll set with these, I don‘t get a lot of reading in on workdays but it‘s nice to know others are enjoying some of my childhood favorites. 2y

MaureenMc My grandmother gave me this one & Little House on the Prairie for Christmas when I was 8. 😊 Must have been the go-to books to gift 8 yo girls in the late 70s/early 80s. 😁 2y

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mrp27

Little House in the Big Woods (Little House, #1) | Laura Ingalls Wilder

December #wrapup

December was busy so lots of meh reading. Stand outs were The Little House books and Walk Two Moons. Murray Christmas was adorable as well as Knight Owl.

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annahenke

Little House in the Big Woods (Turtleback School & Library) | Laura Ingalls Wilder

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#winterreadathon Book 9 finished
@Andrew65 @DieAReader @GHABI4ROSES

This is such a beloved book for me. A fitting reread around Christmastime as the winter and Christmas chapters are some of my absolute favorites!

#childrensbooks #reread

Andrew65 Wonderful memories of this. 🎄🎄🎄 2y

RayHallucinogen I'm just gonna say, in this case the tv show is way better than the book series. 2y

Lynnsoprano I reread The Long Winter, Little House on the Prairie and These Happy Golden Years a few months ago. Such wonderful books that triggered great memories. 2y

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Lynnsoprano @RayHallucinogen In this case, I‘m going to disagree. I never found the series to be as compelling or as satisfying as the books. 2y

BooksNBowls These books are my childhood! Every night my mom would read to me and when I started to read myself, I‘d read aloud to her. Such wonderful memories. ❤️ 2y

DieAReader 🥳🥳🥳 2y

annahenke @RayHallucinogen I have to disagree with you there! I adore the book series. I enjoyed the tv series, but never got into as much!‘ 2y

annahenke @Lynnsoprano love it!! 2y

annahenke @BooksNBowls same! My mom read these aloud to me and my sister when we share a room and I have the best memories! 2y

annahenke @Lynnsoprano same!! ❤️ 2y

RayHallucinogen @Lynnsoprano that tv show has a heart, and they developed some of the most memorable tv characters, Charles and Caroline, Laura and Mary, Mr and Mrs Oleson, Nellie, Mr Edwards...You don't have any of it in the books, and I read the whole book series. 2y

RayHallucinogen @annahenke again, I love the story, but not how it's written. 2y

Lynnsoprano @RayHallucinogen It may be that I was an adult when the tv series came out, but had been introduced to the books when I was in first grade. By the time of the show, I‘d reread them many times. The show didn‘t mesh with my conception of the characters. Your perspective is obviously different, and it‘s one of the joys of Litsy that we can amicably discuss these points of view. 2y

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staci.reads

Little House in the Big Woods (Little House, #1) | Laura Ingalls Wilder

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I loved this reread! I haven't read these since my oldest child was little, and it brought back wonderful memories of both my childhood and hers. #LittleHouse

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BarbaraJean

Little House in the Big Woods (Little House, #1) | Laura Ingalls Wilder

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I‘d never read the Little House books as a kid, so I‘m glad for the #LittleHouse buddy read inspiration to pick them up now. I‘m glad I did. I understand why this is a beloved childhood favorite for so many of my friends. It‘s narrated so simply, and although there‘s no plot to speak of, the picture it draws of the family is a beautiful one. It was fascinating to read about all the WORK of daily life, but also the joys of family celebrations.⤵️

megnews

BarbaraJean I also loved the picture of childhood it paints, and I really related to Laura. Some details of childhood are universal! I‘m interested to continue with the series, especially since I‘ve read so much about the racism that is prevalent in the later books, and the question of how to handle books like these—if their literary value balances out having to wade through racist attitudes and characterizations. 2y

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melissajayne

Little House in the Big Woods | Laura Ingalls Wilder

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4⭐️ I realize that I just read this back in October of this year, but I saw that a #readalong of the #littlehouse books was taking place and I couldn‘t resist. I liked the short vignettes that the author uses throughout the book. Interesting fact: Carrie Ingalls (the baby in the book) actually never lived in Wisconsin. #2022 #reread #fiction #basedonatruestory #childrens #bookreview #bookstagram

megnews

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megnews

Little House in the Big Woods | Laura Ingalls Wilder

A few questions to wrap up our first #LittleHouse read. Thank you to everyone who followed along. You made it a special experience.

I‘m looking forward to starting Farmer Boy with you tomorrow.

rubyslippersreads, melissajayne, GirlNamedJesse, catebutler, BarbaraJean, Vansa, mrp27, Deblovestoread, Bookwormjillk, TEArificbooks, IamIamIam, TheQuietQuill, Q84, Sresendez12, staci.reads, keys_on_fire, Nelnjali, sblbooks, TheAromaofBooks, Roary47, KristiAhlers, Sparklemn, AnnR

megnews In regards to the last question, @mrp27 response to yesterday‘s post made me think. My memory of the book was of Laura as central character, probably because I was a young girl like her. This rereading showed me Pa was as much if not more of a central character. Is it because of their emotional connection? Or perhaps because everyone stayed home while Pa went adventuring and came back with stories? Maybe both. It was delightful. 2y

TheQuietQuill Oh so many great memories with this first book of the Little House series. I feel like Laura chose to write the series because she knew times were going to change and not everything is going to stay the same. Just like when Pa said he welcomes new technology… I think she knew that the future would bring different ways of living. It was almost a recollection of her childhood, and what she remembers. 2y

TheQuietQuill As for the interest for the children of today, I hope to think that the series will continue to live on through our children. I grew up on a farm with my grandparents, and they did a lot of the things that Laura and her parents did to maintain the farm so a lot of these old fashion ways are almost instilled into my brain. It‘s great and educational to know what they have done to survive in the past. 2y

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Bookwormjillk I read these books as an adult shortly after my kids were born. I like this book, but find it more instructional than the others. This is probably because Laura herself was so young. I love it though. I love to see how they made everything by hand aside from that one little bit of store bought sugar. 2y

rubyslippersreads Like @megnews and @mrp27 I always think of Laura as the main character. But with this reading, I‘m seeing the book more as Laura wanting to preserve and share her memories of Pa and “a long time ago.” The last line makes me cry every time. (edited) 2y

BarbaraJean Especially given the last lines of the book, I‘d guess Laura told this story to remember & hang on to her childhood, as well as to share what that time was like with the next/future generations. I do think it has held up—this is my first time reading it, and I understand why it‘s a beloved childhood favorite for so many friends. It‘s simple in its narration, but in a way that‘s accessible & relatable. Laura was relatable for me as an adult reader! 2y

sblbooks I think Laura wanted this series to be a remembrance book. I certainly think the The Little House series stands the test of time, and I hope the next generation will continue to read it. 2y

TEArificbooks I think the series will stand the rest of time, certain term‘s definitely did not. At times, I did think this book would make a good instruction manual on how to live and feed yourself without electricity so I guess I‘m prepared for the zombie apocalypse now. 😂 2y

TheAromaofBooks My mom read this book to my niece (10yrs) last summer and she loved it, so I think they are still engaging to younger readers for sure. This was less of a story than I remember, if that makes sense - there isn't really a plot or anything, just vignettes from her childhood. Still very enjoyable, and my husband and I have really enjoyed discussing how much has changed and how much knowledge has been lost! Looking forward to Farmer Boy next!! 2y

mrp27 I think as an adult I was able to recognize the connection Laura had with Pa. Maybe it‘s just my adult perspective or maybe because my dad is no longer with me, he passed 10 years ago but this reread was definitely all about Pa for me. This book definitely stood the test of time for me and I loved it just as much now as I did then. As for kids of now I‘m sure they‘d like it but when I was working in a bookstore I always recommended this series (edited) 2y

mrp27 and the moms, the grandparents all looked at me like I was nuts. They didn‘t want an old book like Little House and almost very time my suggestion was rejected. Looking forward to Farmer Boy. (edited) 2y

megnews @TheAromaofBooks @Bookwormjillk @mdm139 yes it‘s funny how I recall it being more of a story than an instruction manual. But it definitely does get into all the details. 2y

megnews Like you, @TheQuietQuill @BarbaraJean @sblbooks @mdm139 @TheAromaofBooks & @mrp27 I think and hope the book has stood the test of time. But @mrp27 that‘s a bit discouraging to hear parents weren‘t sure it would be appreciated. I hope the book continues to find its readers in future generations. 2y

melissajayne I think Laura chose to tell her story because she was wanting to impart her story to her extended family. I can‘t recall what was written in Pioneer Girl about that. I think that kids are still interested in the Little House book. I think what I noticed on this reread is how much work that Ma and Pa do. Looking forward to starting Farmer Boy. 2y

keys_on_fire I wonder most about how today‘s kids would react to things like the ‘seen but not heard‘, the punishments and the school scenes. The Christmas scenes really stood out to me too, because I remember the preparations for the holidays and helping my mom being such a a huge part of the experience. It makes me wonder who is going to be reading a story about our time and asking these same questions! 👻 2y

Roary47 I‘m sorry I‘ve been having trouble at work so didn‘t get to read the first book. 😭I‘ll try to join in for the next one. 2y

Vansa It most definitely stands the test of time.Its excellently written,manages to be simple enough for very young children but also good enough for adults,and I love the subtle way she takes you through the seasons,and we end where we started,with winter.I think that's a great way,still,to show children how our lives are affected by nature. 2y

Vansa As @mdm139 has commented,I thought the same thing,that I might have to use this book as a manual to live off the land,when climate change has caused an eco-collapse!As for children relating,I don't see why they shouldn't,after all,so much YA is about magical children in magical schools,that requires much more suspension of disbelief!It's sad to read the comment that these books aren't being bought as much 2y

Vansa I think kids should be told of the attitudes espoused in the book that aren't right,and why the books still hold up.It feels like a loss if kids nowadays aren't reading this,I wouldn't say there are so many books for this reading grade that are miles better 2y

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megnews

Little House in the Big Woods | Laura Ingalls Wilder

Sweet, wonderstruck Pa! I loved his telling of his hunt in the big woods. What a perfect last chapter Laura leaves us with.

Tomorrow we will have a final discussion on Big Woods before moving on to Farmer Boy.

#LittleHouse

AnnR Inserting Pa's stories into the chapters is part of the charm of the Little House Series. As a kid, I felt the same as Laura and Mary and was glad Pa showed some reverence for nature, while being choosy about what ended up on their dinner table. 2y

Vansa Something that struck me as very profound,and showed how in tune you had to be with the cycles of nature,was Pa talking about how they didn't hunt in spring,and let the animals grow before they were hunted. Fascinating. 2y

TEArificbooks I think people did have a better reverence to nature back then. They had to be since so much of their time was used to hunt and gather and grow and prepare food for storage. Their world revolves around nature and the weather and preparing. 2y

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TheAromaofBooks @Vansa @mdm139 - I was thinking the same thing about when Pa said he didn't hunt in the spring and they just wouldn't have fresh meat for a while. The people I know who hunt today all genuinely love the outdoors and spending time in the woods. This year one passed up an opportunity to kill the larger buck he was hunting in order to take a smaller one that had an eye disease and was suffering. Hunting only works in tandem with respect for nature. 2y

BarbaraJean I loved this, too--the way Pa understands and respects the animals he hunts, and honors the beauty of the moment as more important than worrying about stocking the shelves. From the early chapters it was clear that he's careful to take care of the family and make sure they're provided for, but seeing this other side gives such a beautiful, full picture of his character. 2y

mrp27 Agreed! Wonderful last chapter. I‘ve always loved Laura as a character but with this reread I feel like I‘ve really gotten to know Pa. It‘s almost as much as his story here as it was Laura‘s. He‘s climbing up the ranks in my book of revered characters. 2y

megnews @mdm139 agreed. I think they had to have more reverence for it because they had to know the dangers and that they could be at the mercy of nature at any moment. 2y

megnews @TheAromaofBooks very interesting tidbit about hunting. I didn‘t grow up around hunters and didn‘t realize they‘d do that. 2y

TEArificbooks @megnews hunters today will do the salt lick trick and install camouflage stands in the trees on the ground to hide in, they also now have plastic decoys shaped like animals. They put the decoy deer in the meadow so real deer will think it is safe and come out into the meadow. Same with plastic ducks on a pond, the real ducks will land next to them. Feels a bit like cheating to me. 2y

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megnews

Little House in the Big Woods | Laura Ingalls Wilder

Picking up the pace! Today‘s chapter shows advances in agricultural technology. I‘m so proud of Pa for his attitude when so many people have such a tough time embracing change. He has a work smarter not harder attitude. I did chuckle when he said he‘d always use such technologies if they were available “in the neighborhood.” I had definitely not been thinking of the sprawled out big woods as a neighborhood. A side gem in this chapter was Mary 👇🏻

rubyslippersreads, melissajayne, GirlNamedJesse, catebutler, BarbaraJean, Vansa, mrp27, Deblovestoread, Bookwormjillk, TEArificbooks, IamIamIam, TheQuietQuill, Q84, Sresendez12, staci.reads, Nelnjali, sblbooks, TheAromaofBooks, Roary47, KristiAhlers, Sparklemn, AnnR

megnews & Laura using acorns for cups and saucers. This is the imaginative play I grew up in that I don‘t see as much of anymore due to progress. I recall fondly using nature items as all sorts of stand ins. Many a frisbee plate of weeping willow spaghetti were made. Finally the talk of Johnny cake was interesting. I haven‘t yet but I want to see what Google has to say about the origins of the name. What observations did you make as you read this chapter? (edited) 2y

TheAromaofBooks I was once again amazed at how much work goes into EVERYTHING. Ma braiding the straw hats and making the hulled corn - so involved and time-consuming! I was quite interested in the threshing machine as my grandpa's grandpa owned a similar one and took it about to the local farms during harvest season. 2y

Vansa Something that struck me was how fundamental corn seemed to be,as a starch.Corn or cornflour are barely used in Indian cooking,so this was very interesting for me to read.Also,Laura is given proto-cornflakes! 2y

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mrp27 I too miss seeing that imaginative play and the idea of using what you have or what‘s available. There is so much waste in our culture knowing that everything is at the ready to go and purchase and consume. I wish we all could live like that. 2y

TEArificbooks So glad I don‘t have to do all that to eat corn. I got the Little House Cookbook and they also said it was common to eat corn in milk like it was cereal. 2y

Bookwormjillk I loved the part about Ma making hats. I can‘t imagine braiding all of that straw. It must have taken days. 2y

megnews @TheAromaofBooks @Bookwormjillk the craft of hat making is phenomenal and another reminder to me why I‘m happy to be born now. It was so tedious. I just don‘t have the patience! 2y

megnews @mrp27 agreed. I‘m always trying to find little ways to battle materialism and consumerism. This value seems to have rubbed off on my girls as my oldest just said how much she appreciates my experience gift giving rather than more stuff. We have a low key Christmas as far as gifts. It feels so freeing. 2y

megnews @vansa yes corn has been a staple in the Americas for a very long time. 2y

megnews @TheAromaofBooks that is so cool that your ancestor owned a threshing machine and did the same thing as these neighbors in the big woods!! 2y

mrp27 Aww so sweet! I‘m guilty of consumerism but if we could all try just a little harder I think the world will be better for it! 2y

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megnews

Little House in the Big Woods | Laura Ingalls Wilder

I‘ve never wanted the laborious life of a farmer but today‘s #LittleHouse chapter reminds me that even that has improved over time. I cannot imagine all this hard, backbreaking work under the time crunch of weather. And how about Charley? I was aggravated with him. The last sentence of this chapter displays how literally Laura takes everything. My daughter is very much like this and I have to remind myself sometimes how differently she thinks.

melissajayne, GirlNamedJesse, catebutler, BarbaraJean, Vansa, mrp27, Deblovestoread, Bookwormjillk, TEArificbooks, IamIamIam, TheQuietQuill, Q84, Sresendez12, SBL, staci.reads, keys_on_fire, Nelnjali, TheAromaofBooks, Roary47, KristiAhlers, Sparklemn, AnnR

keys_on_fire Two things have stuck out to me over the last few chapters: 1.) Laura the writer had amazing foresight to describe what must have seemed like common, every day things in such detail. Now this detail is helpful because we don‘t do these things as much anymore, if at all. 2.) I think that it‘s a hard thing to protect children and at the same time allow important lessons to be learned. 2y

AnnR This chapter made me think of all the hard work and perils farmers faced. (It also made me wish Pa had found another family member to help with the grain.) Charlie went well beyond being naughty or spoiled and was just mean spirited. As for Laura, perhaps she hadn't caught on yet that people could lie, solely through their actions. 2y

sblbooks Farming was such hard work, especially back then, I was surprised that Charley was so spoiled. He cried wolf one too many times... and paid the consequences. I also love the detailed writing. @keys_on_fire 2y

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mrp27 This chapter made me think in general how over time adults have spoiled children into doing little to no work at all when children are capable. I know my nieces and nephews never would have survived if they lived in Laura‘s time with the kind of chores she and Mary endured. 😂 2y

megnews @keys_on_fire I agree. This is not the technical process writing I‘d usually enjoy but seeing it through a child‘s curious eyes makes all the difference. Amazing writing! 2y

megnews @sblbooks I was very surprised how spoiled Charley was. Seems very uncommon for the time period. @mrp27 I wouldn‘t have survived! 2y

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megnews

Little House in the Big Woods | Laura Ingalls Wilder

Sweet Laura! My other favorite part of today‘s chapter was talking Swedish and English with Mrs. Peterson and the puzzle of sharing the cookie with baby Carrie. #LittleHouse

melissajayne, GirlNamedJesse, catebutler, BarbaraJean, Vansa, mrp27, Deblovestoread, Bookwormjillk, TEArificbooks, IamIamIam, TheQuietQuill, Q84, Sresendez12, staci.reads, keys_on_fire, Nelnjali, sblbooks, TheAromaofBooks, Roary47, KristiAhlers, Sparklemn, AnnR

TheAromaofBooks I loved the line about how the neighbor spoke Swedish and the girls spoke English and they all understood each other perfectly 😂 2y

sblbooks @TheAromaofBooks me too. I like the illustration of the bear getting him some honey, with bees swarming all around. 2y

megnews @TheAromaofBooks @sblbooks I loved that line too. 2y

mrp27 I loved the part of the bear getting the honey from the tree. I love how sweet the illustrations are. 2y

IamIamIam A cute chapter and Mary getting a taste of some bitter medicine! I loved the description of Pa bringing all that honey home and the cheese making process! It reminded me of a demonstration of fresh mozzarella being made. ❤️ Mmm, cheese... 🐀 2y

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megnews

Little House in the Big Woods | Laura Ingalls Wilder

Such a fun chapter! I enjoyed seeing the ladies get ready through Laura‘s eyes. I especially loved the dance off between Grandma and Uncle George. He is quite a character! And we get to see Laura‘s spunk come out when her cousin tells her her baby is prettier than Carrie. “She is not either!” #LittleHouse

Vansa I thought this entire chapter was absolutely delightful, and so perfectly written, through the eyes of a child 2y

AnnR This is another favorite chapter of mine, with all the dancing, merriment and more maple syrup! 2y

TheAromaofBooks I couldn't help but wonder if either of the aunts had a special beau coming that night that they didn't get to see often. It would be so weird to spend so much time not seeing anyone outside your household! 2y

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megnews @TheAromaofBooks I wondered the same. 2y

sblbooks This chapter was such a treat, literally. I enjoyed hearing about how the maple candy was made. I laughed when the two Laura's got an argument. I could picture Grandma and Uncle George jigging.😄 2y

keys_on_fire I looked up The Arkansas Traveler on Amazon Music and listened to a fiddle player play that tune. Was I surprised to find out that the tune is the same as the music to I‘m Bringing Home a Baby Bumblebee!!! And now it‘s stuck in your head too! 😂 (edited) 2y

Bookwormjillk This was such a fun chapter, but kind of bittersweet knowing they‘ll be leaving it all behind. 2y

mrp27 Agreed! Such a fun and loved chapter. I had no idea the song Buffalo Girls was as old as this! 2y

IamIamIam @keys_on_fire That's amazing!!! 2y

IamIamIam I loved this whole chapter and the illustration of Aunt Ruby & Aunt Docia doing their hair is so delicate and beautiful! 2y

megnews @keys_on_fire that is amazing! I had to go to YouTube and listen too. 2y

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megnews

Little House in the Big Woods | Laura Ingalls Wilder

Today‘s #LittleHouse chapter includes 2 Bear encounters that could have been disastrous but turned out a bit comical instead. This led me down a rabbit whole on Google. Pa‘s trip to the store made me do a little research on how far they were from the nearest town. Where the recreated cabin is today is 7 miles from the closest village of 837 people. I found the cabin is located on the Great River Road which struck me as to how isolated they 👇🏻

megnews are because Laura never mentions it. You‘d think as large as the Mississippi is she would have been aware. Is that where Pa caught all those fish in the net? What observations did you make as read this chapter? 2y

TheQuietQuill Living in the woods, I certainly can relate to Ma when she encounters a black bear. We have many here, including a 600 pounder who isn‘t afraid of people. When me and my son are outside playing, we always have to be aware of our surroundings but what Ma did to protect her little Laura was perfect. We all have our own mama bear instincts too, so I applaud Ma for keeping her cool ❤️ 2y

TheAromaofBooks I've never attacked a stump, but I have definitely had moments where I thought I was seeing something more dangerous than I was. Being alone in the woods, especially at dusk/dark, definitely changes your perspective!! I also thought how seeing the bear at the cabin must have made Ma even more scared for Pa's safety. So scary sitting and waiting for him. I can't imagine smacking a bear and living to tell the tale!!! 2y

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IamIamIam Bears scare the life out of me and have only been a concern one night when we were camping in CT. There are either no bears on Long Island or very few. I know they're in NJ & CT but thankfully they haven't crossed the bridges!!! I can't imagine finding a huge bear in the yard and giving it a good slap! Go Ma! 2y

IamIamIam @megnews Pab did say he had about 6 miles to walk before he got home after he started out so 7 miles from the town makes sense but that's some walk, and in the snow, no less!! People were made of sturdier stuff than I am back in those days!!! 2y

keys_on_fire I don‘t know that I can add anything else about the bear, but the nighttime prayer made me smile. This was the prayer that we always said before bed, and even my nephews learned a version of it. The middle line they learned was changed to “Guard and protect me through the night.” I remember asking my parents about whether I would actually die in my sleep, so maybe that‘s why it was changed? 2y

KristiAhlers Can you imagine how isolated you‘d be during winter? Ugh it makes me anxious just thinking about it with all that snow and the wind and no snow blower or electricity. People back in the day really were strong in order to deal with that kinda thing. And don‘t get me started on bears. The very idea freaks me out. 2y

megnews @IamIamIam I appreciated Ma‘s nervous response later in the day when she thought about patting a bear and living to tell about it. They‘ll both always have a good story to share. 2y

megnews @IamIamIam @KristiAhlers I couldn‘t do it either!! Oh I don‘t like the cold! (edited) 2y

megnews @keys_on_fire I always said this prayer too. I never asked but I remember worrying a little about dying in my sleep. A strange thing to teach kids. 2y

sblbooks I remember my grandmother taught me that little prayer when I was a kid. You had to be tough to be a pioneer, walking 7 miles in the snow... dealing with bears. 2y

Bookwormjillk I always loved the part where Ma smacks the bear. 2y

mrp27 I agree, I never thought about how isolated they were when I read as a child but now as an an adult I do. As for bears… my family and I are big campers so we have many stories of encountering a few while camping in the Sierra Nevada mountains. Luckily they all have happy endings like Ma and Laura‘s. (edited) 2y

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Vansa

Little House in the Big Woods (Turtleback School & Library) | Laura Ingalls Wilder

Third mention in 3 pages about how ugly brown hair is. Sigh. Internalised misogyny is so pervasive

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megnews

Little House in the Big Woods (Little House, #1) | Laura Ingalls Wilder

Today‘s #LittleHouse chapter ends with a song sung by Pa which used an offensive ethnic slur used during the time period of which the book is written. Some on their first reading or those who recall the books fondly may have been caught off guard, not knowing or recalling the language. A word of caution as we move forward: there will be more derogatory language used, particularly in regards to Native Americans. Considering the times of which 👇🏻

megnews And during which the book is written, this won‘t be a huge surprise to avid readers. But how do we handle it? Particularly if we are parents or teachers reading aloud with kids. Much has been written on the topic, from banning the books altogether to addressing the issues as they arise. In the comments below I will share two good articles on this subject, the titles of which are pictured here. One subtitle states “It‘s time, some say, for 👇🏻 2y

megnews different stories.” I agree. I love contemporary stories that address these issues head on and address a variety of audiences to reflect the diversity of the world around us. I also think the Little House books can still have value. It‘s a dangerous thing to ignore the past, because in doing so there‘s the threat of repeating it or by denying it compounding the injury it has inflicted. Read aloud of books such as Little House should be 👇🏻 2y

IndoorDame I had a real problem with that on my last read which is why I decided not to reread them. But I‘ve heard the tagged series by Louise Erdrich discussed as a good alternative in that light, so I plan to read them in the new year.

The Birchbark House

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megnews sensitive to these topics and include discussion about the impact today. That‘s why I especially appreciate the second article I will tag that includes 2 conversations one reader had with her daughter while reading the books. These conversations are invaluable and show kids today are capable of discernment and empathy when it comes to reading such books. The first article shares the impact Little House had on one little girl of color who 👇🏻 2y

megnews badly wanted to see herself in the stories and went on to do something about that when she became an author herself. Take a little time to read and reflect and share your thoughts here. https://www.rewire.org/is-it-time-to-let-go-little-house-on-the-prairie/amp/ 2y

megnews https://library.nashville.org/blog/2019/08/tackling-racism-childrens-books-littl... 2y

megnews @IndoorDame I started Birchback House on audio but was going through a period where my brain was drifting away from the audio. That‘s my struggle with audio sometimes. I intend to read the series some day as well. 2y

IndoorDame @megnews I definitely have that with audio sometimes. And I completely agree with you about read alouds of things like this, when done well, helping to keep us from repeating past mistakes 2y

Vansa I expect these attitudes,so while it made me wince,I was not shocked.I think Gone with Wind,for instance,is a far worse offender when it comes to racism.I don't think it helps to say that there's no need to read these stories anymore-this is a very well written series,and it's genuinely a good story.I have to say that I don't find Louise Erdrich a good writer,and Birchbarck House really isn't as well written as this.Is hers an important voice?(1/2 2y

Vansa (2/2)no question about that.Is it well written? Unfortunately not.I would say read both, definitely.Ignoring the Past doesn't help at all,how else do you learn about harmful attitudes? 2y

AnnR The language is shocking at first (and disappointing) but I try to keep in mind the time period the story is representing. It should be used as a teaching moment with children and young adults. Otherwise I'm not a reader who is in favor of editing out racial slurs or inappropriate phrases in older novels. Once publishers go down that path, who knows what else will be edited out. (edited) 2y

Susanita I heard the author speak and enjoyed this book:

Prairie Lotus

AnnR I've also read Prairie Lotus and thought it was well written. After reading some of the comments above, I'll say I've struggled through several books I've read by Erdrich. I'm not sure what it is, the writing or the stories, but I usually have to push myself to finish her books. 2y

TEArificbooks As a parent and a teacher, the way I handle it is to address it. I explain to the children the books were written in a different time. Language changes and acceptable terms change. That is is not currently acceptable to use those those terms, that those terms are considered offensive and cruel. And one day, the terms we use will be considered offense as well. 2y

TEArificbooks However, if a offensive term is used excessively (like the n word in Mark Twain novels) I will edit that down some during the read aloud. 2y

TEArificbooks I like that the books inspired new writers to do better. 2y

KristiAhlers This is one of the reasons they want to ban her books. Personally I think that‘s a bad idea as this opens up a dialogue between kids and parents as to why this was done and how it‘s not appropriate now. We can‘t judge yesterday by today as that‘s not fair. But yes I forgot about the use of those words. 2y

keys_on_fire We must not revise history; we must learn from it, challenge it and do better. 2y

sblbooks @Mdm139 exactly! Like others have said, I try to remember when the book was written. Those who don't learn from history are doomed to repeat it. 2y

IamIamIam I don't think books should be banned because I think they're reflective of both different times and individuals. Are all those things savory to us today? Absolutely not, but context is key. You can't see progress if you reset the starting line and I think there is much to be learned from the past and from individuals who are most affected by it today. 2y

IamIamIam We had a similar conversation with my kids when the Great Seuss Debate came up a few years ago. We pulled To Think I Saw It on Mulberry Street and talked about how different our country was in the 1930s. Times and attitudes change and its our job as parents to explain that in a sensible way. 2y

megnews @Susanita @Ann_Reads 1 of the articles I linked included an interview with the author of Prairie Lotus. She is the one who wanted to see herself in the books and felt so hurt. I have that one on my tbr and will have to get to it soon. 2y

megnews @ann_reads I agree I‘m not in favor of publishers editing books after publication. Well said @keys_on_fire 2y

megnews Thank you to everyone for your thoughtful comments. 2y

melissajayne I don‘t think either that books should be banned because of the language that they use. My friends and I had a discussion recently about this topic and my friends and I are of a similar age and we came to the consensus that kids should be taught these books but then also taught about the context of why this language was used. 2y

mrp27 I was afraid to come across these moments and it‘s partly why I haven‘t reread the series. But in the end we must use it as a teachable moment and going forward do better. 2y

BarbaraJean I didn't read these as a child & have been wary of reading them as an adult because of what I've heard about the racism they contain. As others have said, I don't think censoring books like this is helpful. It's better to contextualize them appropriately & use the opportunity to discuss the problems of racism, in the past & today. I struggle with readalouds for material like this, though--the words feel more harmful/hurtful when spoken aloud. 2y

megnews @BarbaraJean I agree it sounds so awful out loud. Like @mdm139 I try to skip them when reading aloud. 2y

megnews @mrp27 this next chapter I found myself holding my breath when Pa started to singing hoping it wasn‘t a repeat of the last chapter. 2y

mrp27 It‘s always a challenge separating the art from the difficult parts. 2y

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megnews

Little House in the Big Woods (Little House, #1) | Laura Ingalls Wilder

Today‘s #LittleHouse post will be 2 parts. First, let‘s discuss the chapter up to the ending song Pa sang.
Sundays! Did this bring back any memories for anyone? I grew up in the 80s & most things were closed or closed very early on Sundays. I remember you couldn‘t even get gas. Times have changed. I loved the story of Grandpa & his brothers.
I also appreciated the opening lines of the chapter about being tired of winter & staying indoors. 👇🏻

megnews Many of us probably understand that feeling very well. What observations did you have as you read the chapter? 2y

Vansa I found Ma's observation very interesting -that things were very different for little girls and they had to behave themselves all the time, not just Sundays, when she was a child.I didn't know of this entire proscription of work on the Sabbath,I thought that was something that only Judaism required! 2y

AnnR In my family on Sundays, we were allowed to play, do homework and even watch football. My typical childhood Sunday would have been a stark contrast to the Ingalls' day. 2y

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AnnR I did smile at the part where Laura asked if Adam had good clothes to wear on Sundays. When Ma replied that Adam just had skins to wear, Laura wishes the same for herself! I think she just loves adventure and play, plus has a wonderful imagination. Pa seems to understand that. Mary is very different in comparison. 2y

TheAromaofBooks I thought it was so interesting that they still put on their good clothes for Sundays even though they weren't actually going to church! I know in my family, Sundays have always been for church and family. We avoid errands, eating out, or events that take us away from home or would cause other people to have to work on Sundays. It's nice to have a day that is restful and companionable. 😊 2y

KristiAhlers This actually reminds me of how we did things growing up. When we lived in Europe sundays are literally a day or rest and family. You can‘t get groceries or gas or anything like that in smaller villages. I loved how that forced our little family to reassess how we lived and did things. 2y

keys_on_fire I remember having my first job at Burger King and having to tell them not to schedule me on Sundays because I couldn‘t drive yet. My dad is a pastor and didn‘t want me to work on Sundays. They often scheduled me anyway and I had to tell them I had no ride. It is an interesting difference between how the adults viewed Sundays vs the kids in the story. 2y

sblbooks I can remember the stores being closed on Sunday. We did not do any chores, or things like that, just church. Of course, it was nowhere near as strict as during the little house years. I'm glad we didn't have to walk everywhere I would have a hard time. I love the story about Grandpa sledding & the pig.😄 2y

IamIamIam I was thinking that we haven't heard about schooling for Mary or Laura yet and when Laura has just had enough of sitting quietly, I wonder if it's because they're so young still. I did not grow up religiously so Sunday was just a day we got together for dinner. I do remember stores closing early or opening late, though. 2y

megnews @TheAromaofBooks It is interesting that they still dressed up even though they didn‘t go to church. @Ann_Reads that question about Adam and Laura‘s thoughts on the matter was so funny and I think kids today might feel the same! 2y

mrp27 I grew up in the 70‘s/80‘s in Southern California and Sundays seemed like any other day in my family. We did go to church but never abided by the no work or no play. Sundays was mostly about family and seeing family or having family dinners. I think if I grew up like Laura a no work Sunday would have been heaven, would have given me plenty of time to read quietly! 2y

BarbaraJean Growing up, my family frowned on going out to restaurants or stores on Sundays, like @TheAromaofBooks said, so we wouldn't cause others to have to work on Sundays. In high school, I wasn't prohibited from going to movies or restaurants with friends on Sundays, but I knew my parents disapproved! In the chapter, it was interesting that there's no reasoning given behind why they couldn't do certain things, just that it was Sunday. ⬇ 2y

BarbaraJean I guess Laura was so young that the things she couldn't do stand out more than the reasoning behind it. But I have such a strong sense of “why?“ that I wanted to hear more about the reasons, or at least how it was explained to the kids. It doesn't sound like they have family prayers or their own version of a church service, so having such a limited range of activities that were permitted seems even harder without other activities to fill the time! 2y

megnews @BarbaraJean interesting observation about Laura not asking why. I think maybe because this is the era of children are to be seen and not heard. Children might have been considered impertinent to ask why. And as Ma mentions in the threat of the next chapter, it could be dangerous not to follow a parent‘s instructions immediately without question. 2y

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megnews

Little House in the Big Woods (Little House, #1) | Laura Ingalls Wilder

My favorite chapter! I read this over and over again as a kid. Talk about feeling cozy! From mom baking Swedish crackers and vinegar pies to candy making, licking the spoon, relatives visiting, bundling up to play in the snow, to Pa‘s music, and Santa‘s arrival, this chapter really makes you see, smell, hear and FEEL Christmas. What similarities and differences do you see between Christmas then and now? What traditions does your family keep? 👇🏻

megnews What sights, sounds, smells pull you back to childhood Christmases? Other observations from this chapter? 2y

IamIamIam This was so sweet! I loved reading about how Pa carved the little shelf for Ma! So much of this chapter feels familiar, unlike the others. The kids playing in the snow, candy canes, getting that one special gift. The molasses candy was fun to read about too and I'm curious as to how you'd make a vinegar cake. I might have to try that! Lol 2y

IamIamIam Well, that was easy... https://laurasprairiehouse.com/recipes/vinegar-pie-recipe-little-house-pioneer-r... 2y

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megnews @IamIamIam just the thought of vinegar doesn‘t sound appetizing in a pie! Let us know how it is if you try it. 2y

IamIamIam @megnews I actually make a vegan chocolate cake that calls for apple cider vinegar & you don't notice it at all! This recipe is mostly sugar & butter so I'm curious to see how the custard comes out. 😁 2y

mrp27 I agree that was one of my favorite chapters too as a kid and even today. I‘m happy that nothing has changed between the years and I‘m still getting lost in the details and descriptions. It‘s holding its magic for sure. Oh gosh I have so many wonderful Christmas memories I could go on for hours but it‘s always the baking smells and fresh tree that get me. 2y

TEArificbooks Definitely love this chapter! My kids loved hearing about all the fun things they did for Christmas and how they made maple candy. They want to do that too but we live in a desert so no snow. They were shocked that the kids only got mittens and piece of candy. Made me think maybe the world was less materialistic back then. Granted they lived far from town and with the snow Pa couldn‘t just go to the store. 2y

TEArificbooks My boys asked why didn‘t Santa give them books! Our family tradition is Santa gives everyone a new book. 2y

megnews @mdm139 I think the majority of the world was much less materialistic. My gran grew up in the early 30s, long after this, and her Christmas was a sock with oranges and candy. And they lived in a town with a store. Life was just so different then. 2y

staci.reads I also remember reading this chapter vividly as a child. My dad started reading the series to me and my brothers when I was in first grade, but after maybe the 1st 2, I kept going with them on my own. I did the same with my oldest. 2y

KristiAhlers I agree this chapter is legit a comfort read if there ever was one. It‘s surprising me how much I am seeing from the perspective of an adult vs what I took away as a little girl 2y

sblbooks This chapter definitely brought back some Christmas childhood memories for me too. All the cousins, aunts and uncles would gather at the grandparents house. We got a lot more toys in the '80s than they did back in Laura's time, but we always had homemade candy and a big feast. 2y

TheQuietQuill What a beautiful chapter! I love the tradition that the Ingall‘s had with having family spend the night so they could all wake up to Christmas together. Thats also a tradition that I loved as a kid with my own family. We would all get together for Christmas dinner and then open presents after. One of my sweetest memories ❤️ 2y

Bookwormjillk Laura Ingalls Wilder does the best Christmas scenes. They really make you thrilled for the girls and their mittens don‘t they? Poor Laura I really feel nervous for her every time she has to share Charlotte. Our Christmas tradition is a book and PJs on Christmas Eve. 2y

megnews @Bookwormjillk we always got pj‘s on Christmas Eve too 😊 2y

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IamIamIam

Little House in the Big Woods (Little House, #1) | Laura Ingalls Wilder

Needed a bit of the Rona to help me keep up with the Little House Readalong! 🤣 I really lucked out this year and last year with a case of covid that's a mild inconvenience rather than a serious illness! Home until Thursday & reading as much as I can until then!!! Thanks so much @megnews for organizing this! ❤️

megnews You‘re welcome. Glad you have some extra reading time and only a light case. Feel better soon! 2y

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megnews

Little House in the Big Woods (Little House, #1) | Laura Ingalls Wilder

#LittleHouse ch 3 - A couple observations
The last two days we discussed Ingalls‘ lengthy descriptions of household work. The rifle cleaning is another example but I find it somehow different than smoking meat and making butter. The others seemed to look back with loving remembrance while this seemed a bit more matter of fact. Is Ingalls recalling these vivid details with love for her past, to document for posterity, or both?
👇🏻

megnews I‘ve heard my dad and all 4 grandparents tell stories of misbehaving when they were young and all ended in the child getting their own switch. It sounded almost like an art form trying to pick the one that would sting the least. I found it interesting grandpa picked the switch himself. Anyone else heard similar stories? 2y

Vansa @megnews corporal punishment is very much prevalent in India,till today,in schools as well, where kids get caned. 2y

Vansa I found this chapter on the gun so...thought provoking I gave it to my husband to read too.Its incredible to read of how much a fact of life the hunting rifle was,that the little kids are involved in helping to clean it!It seems to me to just be a description of something that was a regular,but integral activity in their life.Almost poetic description of the process of making the bullets.And she adds that layer of immediacy by writing of how (1/2) 2y

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Vansa (2/2) the kids would want to touch the bullets before they cooled! So vivid and real 2y

TEArificbooks I think maybe her recall of all these “way of life” is out of love from her past. She was older when she wrote the books and like many elderly telling stories of their past it is because of fondness. That being said, it definitely documents the culture of the time period and I think we have things to learn from the past. That is why I love historical fiction, you can learn more about what day to day life was really like living then. 2y

TheQuietQuill I always looked at the gun cleaning and loading the gun as a serious chapter, because it‘s a serious job. Literally a matter of life or death job. And I feel like the gun played a very important role because that was their way to survive in the wilderness, that was their safety when going out due to the imposing dangers of wildlife. I think that‘s why Laura is so serious when describing the cleaning and loading of the gun. 2y

Deblovestoread I‘ve heard lots of stories where my dad was told to go get a switch. My grandfather didn‘t have much patience for antics and my dad was a full of them. Everything done back then was full of intention and attention. Any little mishap could have disastrous results. 2y

IamIamIam Another really interesting chapter that my life is far removed from. My dad was a police sergeant & I remember him cleaning his weapon but it was just a thing he did for work. This shows that it was so ingrained into life but such an important safety measure. It's another wonderful view of a time gone by. Pa making the bullets is fascinating! 2y

mrp27 @IamIamIam Same here! My dad was in law enforcement and was always cleaning his gun in front of the tv like it was a normal thing to do! So for me, then and now the descriptions in this chapter didn‘t hold any more weight than others. 2y

keys_on_fire I found myself thinking about how much reverence for this meticulous process of preparing and maintaining the gun was in the telling of this chapter. That was as much of a necessary tool as a plow would be. I have to imagine because Pa included the girls in the ritual they would not have been as tempted to mishandle it, even though it was always loaded. 2y

sblbooks My grandparents would have you go get your own switch, but if you didn't get one big enough they would go get one. 2y

rubyslippersreads My very tiny maternal grandmother would tell her boys to go get a switch, and they would come back with a big log that she couldn‘t possibly pick up. She‘d start laughing and forget about the punishment. (This was the grandma who also shared my love of the Little House books.) (edited) 2y

megnews @rubyslippersreads 😂 what a great story! Thanks for sharing. 2y

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megnews

Little House in the Big Woods | Laura Ingalls Wilder

Ch 2 - We got 14 responses to the survey. About a quarter of us are first time readers. For those who have also watched the tv series, do you picture those actors when reading? I don‘t and I think it‘s because I read the book first so many years ago.
Thoughts on ch 2? For me, I always loved how Pa called Laura his little half pint. I also loved Laura‘s description of Jack Frost.

TheQuietQuill Sometimes I do picture the characters from the show in my head, but then I look at the illustrations and imagine them instead. I think my favorite part of chapter 2 is when Laura is talking about Jack Frost. Where I live it‘s starting to get colder outside, and I always tell my son the story of Jack Frost not knowing that it‘s actually mentioned in this book, so that was a really cool surprise! 2y

TEArificbooks I think that of all the chores mentioned churning butter would also be my favorite chore, but am so glad I don‘t have to do it since it take so long. 2y

Vansa I had forgotten just how detailed, and deeply immersive her writing is.The entire chapter,it's descriptions of how they stock up on food,the sheer...vividness of her writing-Ma using a carrot to colour the butter,the delight of fresh pats of butter with the strawberry mark,it's living off the land in all its complexity. 2y

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AnnR Thankfully, I usually don't see the tv characters in my mind while reading the books. I agree with the comments above, as I'm always surprised at the complexity and descriptiveness of the writing when I begin rereading the series. 2y

AnnR The illustration of Pa frightening Mary and Laura with his 'mad dog' impression always makes me smile. Not sure why. Perhaps it brings back memories from my childhood. 2y

Vansa Another thing I found interesting,and I would like it if someone could enlighten me on this-Pa is so,so hands-on,as a dad.This,to me,from a conservative, patriarchal country is very surprising,with not a word,about how sons would have been more useful and so on,which are the prevailing attitudes here,in the 21st century.Was Pa an iconoclast, do you think? 2y

rubyslippersreads I had read the books several times before seeing the show, so I don‘t picture the TV characters. But when my mom and I did watch the show and saw the actors, she joked that Pa was prettier than Ma. 😂 2y

mrp27 I read these books first in the 70‘s when the show was current and I watched it in real time but always when I read it‘s Willams illustrations of the characters that I think of. 2y

sblbooks I've watched the show and read the book, but I don't picture the actors when reading. My favorite part of chapter 2 was the butter churning. It brought back memories of my childhood when my grandparents would churn and I would help them. 2y

IamIamIam I don't see the characters as they were on TV, but I find it funny that in the ch 2 illustrations, Mary has Curls like Nelly! Lol, I loved the butter churning bit, especially with the cooked carrots! I also really loved the description of the base of the kerosene lamp. Maybe it reminds me of the hurricane lamps we use for camping. So lovingly described, with the flannel bits. ❤️ 2y

KristiAhlers When I was growing up my grandparents took me to an area where they were filming an episode. I got to meet Michael Landon. I always picture the actors in the role of the various characters! 2y

Bookwormjillk I love reading my chapter each night right before I head to bed. Such a cozy story. No snow here but her descriptions make it feel like there‘s a storm outside. 2y

BarbaraJean This is my first time reading the books, and I've watched the show, but so far the book characters are distinct from the TV series characters for me. I think it's because Laura & Mary seem quite a bit younger than on the show. I was fascinated by the description of how Ma made the butter yellow! I wonder if the butter would have tasted carroty, too. And the panther story was terrifying. I couldn't help but wonder what happened to the horse! 2y

megnews @TheQuietQuill I occasionally picture Michael Landon but he‘s the only one and I quickly picture back to the illustrations 2y

megnews @vansa @BarbaraJean @iamiamiam I also wondered if the butter would taste carroty and it‘s interesting to me that Ma took the time to color it and press it to make it look pretty when it took so long to make everything and there was so much to do. In my cabin it would have been served in a slab it‘s original color. 😂 (edited) 2y

megnews @Ann_Reads I love that illustration as well as all the ones where dad is playing with them. It‘s funny how her most vivid and detailed descriptions are of her Pa and not her Ma since she would have spent much more time with Ma. 2y

megnews @KristiAhlers that‘s really cool. where did the filming take place? 2y

megnews @Bookwormjillk yes, cozy describes it perfectly 2y

megnews @Vansa your question about Pa is hard to answer. Must think about it. 2y

TEArificbooks @Vansa I have been thinking about what you were saying about Pa. In my experience America tends to be less patriarchal. The colonist moved here to get away from religious and political oppression and many colonies and states and territories passed laws to prevent these oppressions from happening here. Many of those laws allowed for women‘s right to inherent and other women‘s rights therefore increasing the value of women in society‘s view point. 2y

TEArificbooks @Vansa my dad only had daughters and I never felt that he would rather have a boy. And I know many dads with only daughters and women friends whose dads had only daughters and they all had the experience that their dads loved them unconditionally and never made them feel less valued than boys 2y

TEArificbooks @Vansa I do think we still have plenty of room to continue to improve in terms of women‘s equality in society standards and more laws need to be passed to ensure them. I think having books like this one, with fathers like Pa, showing a shiny example of valuing their daughters and loving their daughters unconditionally, also helps make the world less patriarchal. It at least shows girls they have value and they become the mothers of the future 👎 2y

TEArificbooks @Vansa and as mother‘s they have a great deal of influence on raising the next generation. They can pass down to their daughters they have equal value. They can pass down to their sons that girls are valuable and should be respected. 2y

TEArificbooks @Vansa there is a lot of toxic masculinity, sexism, sexual harassment, abuse, rape, and other crimes against women that we need to improve on as a society. I am not saying our society is perfect. 2y

KristiAhlers @megnews up in Northern California by a town called Twain Heart. It‘s right at the beginnings of the Sierra Nevada foothills. 2y

Vansa @mdm139 thank you for your thoughtful response. 2y

Nelnjali @megnews I wonder if these descriptions are so vivid because she didn't get as much time to spend with her father, so these moments were precious. 2y

Sparklemn @BarbaraJean I was also wondering about the horse! 2y

BarbaraJean @Sparklemn I‘m glad I‘m not alone in worrying about the poor horse! 2y

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mrp27

Little House in the Big Woods (Little House, #1) | Laura Ingalls Wilder

I adored this series and reread the books repeatedly when I was a kid. These books are definitely a part of the fabric that has made me a reader. I haven‘t read them since so I‘m really looking forward to starting this one again with chapter a day. This copy is my one surviving title from the books I once owned.

megnews

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megnews

Little House in the Big Woods | Laura Ingalls Wilder

It‘s day 1 of the #LittleHouse buddy read.
Originally published in 1932, despite the book‘s beginning, “Once upon a time, sixty years ago…” the events actually took place 150 years ago now!
Today‘s post includes a poll on whether this is your first reading of Little House or no. Results will be shared tomorrow. As for me, my Gran gave me the set for Christmas and I would read them through and start over again immediately. The Little House 👇🏻

rubyslippersreads, melissajayne, GirlNamedJesse, catebutler, BarbaraJean, Vansa, mrp27, Deblovestoread, Bookwormjillk, IamIamIam, Q84, Sresendez12, staci.reads, keys_on_fire, Nelnjali, sblbooks, TheAromaofBooks, Roary47, KristiAhlers, Sparklemn, AnnR

megnews series definitely created in me a lifelong reader. Some of the same things from ch 1 that stood out to me as a child still strike me today: the trees being all you could see for miles around, the food being hunted and stored, the lack of toys and ingenuity in making them. My Gran who was born in 1927 also had a corncob doll. What struck you as you read the first chapter today? 2y

megnews Take the poll at https://forms.gle/gRK1YP3GJinWXSyCA 2y

IamIamIam These were well worn volumes from my childhood! My grandmother was a big fan of the TV show so it was natural that I gravitated towards it! 2y

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megnews @IamIamIam my mom worked nights when I was young and I remember her coming home and turning the show on before we‘d leave for school in the morning and she‘d head to bed. 2y

Nelnjali My mom read at least the first few of them to me (maybe all of them, but I can't remember), and then I know I read the whole series when I was a little older. I know I loved them, but while I remember some moments, I don't remember everything. I'm so excited to be reading through them again! 2y

TEArificbooks Please add me to the tag list. I am reading the series to my kids at bed time. I read the book series when I was in elementary school and I create them for making me a reader. 2y

Bookwormjillk I can‘t wait to start this tonight! 2y

TheQuietQuill I can‘t wait to start reading tonight, I was a HUGE fan of the show and still am! Thanks for setting up this #buddyread as it‘s one I‘m certainly looking forward to 🥰 2y

TheQuietQuill Could you also tag me in the posts as well? I‘m a little late to the party haha 😂 and thank you for hosting! 2y

megnews @mdm139 @TheQuietQuill I added you to this list! Glad you could join. I‘m looking forward to it. 2y

keys_on_fire I remember having the set as a child but never really getting past The Long Winter. As a child I didn't really identify with the books as Laura grew up, so I am super excited to read these again AS an adult and get through the entire series. Thanks so much for hosting! I'll comment again after I read the chapter this evening :) 2y

TheAromaofBooks Yes! These were childhood favorites although it has been years since I've reread them. Growing up I loved Garth Williams's illustrations and I was enamored by them again this morning reading the first chapter. Mom gifted me the series in hardback one book at a time, Christmas and birthday, over the course of a few years and I still have those editions. 2y

TheAromaofBooks In today's chapter, I was really struck by how important it was not to waste anything. Reading about how they used every bit of the hog they slaughtered, the careful preservation of the garden food, the struggle to find game to hunt - it's hard to imagine getting up to spend a day looking for a deer knowing that if you don't find one, your family may go hungry! 2y

Nelnjali @TheAromaofBooks I was really struck by that too. Not a single bit went to waste, and there was great joy taken in the simple things, like a bit of meat on a pig's tail or a corncob doll. 2y

megnews @TheAromaofBooks yes! I‘ve always loved the illustrations as well. 2y

megnews @TheAromaofBooks @Nelnjali yes, I noted that too-how they left nothing to waste and the joy of such simple things. Playing with a pig‘s bladder! Also, I have deer in my yard all the time but I can‘t imagine having wolves in my front yard and bear so close to the house. Yikes! (edited) 2y

Vansa This was quite an opening chapter. I've read this years back and can't really remember anything.My god,the difficulty of living off the land.And the stoic way it's narrated! 2y

TEArificbooks On a personal note - I am from Kansas and felt connected to Laura when I read these books as a child. I too was the younger sister of a perfect older sister that did everything right. When my parents moved to Kansas and were pregnant with my sister everyone said if it was a girl (this is before sonograms) they should name her Laura for Laura Ingalls Wilder. But the babysitter was a Laura so they named her after the actress that played Laura. 2y

TEArificbooks I have been to the Little House museum in Kansas (there are some YouTubers with tours). These books definitely make me hungry with all the food descriptions, but I definitely am glad I don‘t have to play with a pigs bladder or make pigs head cheese from scratch. I love how these books show how people lived during that time period, so differently from today. Makes us appreciate our standards, technology, and convenience of living today 2y

rubyslippersreads @keys_on_fire The Long Winter hit me completely differently as an adult. 2y

rubyslippersreads @TheAromaofBooks @megnews I love the Garth Williams illustrations, but I love the original Helen Sewell illustrations even more. 😊 2y

rubyslippersreads I used to check these out of the library over and over. 😊 2y

megnews @Vansa @mdm139 yes, the difficulty. I‘ve always been really into history and historical fiction but I am glad I was born in the era of convenience that I was. (edited) 2y

megnews @mdm139 thanks for the heads up about the YouTube tours. I will have to check them out. 2y

TheAromaofBooks @rubyslippersreads - Actually, I don't think I've ever seen the original illustrations! I will definitely look them up! 2y

TheAromaofBooks @megnews - Quick question, are we going to read a chapter a day straight through the series, or are we going to be reading one book a month? 2y

Roary47 I had the series since college knowing I wanted to read it from what I‘ve heard. I know I started reading them before my dad passed and we watched the show together after I finished the first one. I finished the whole series once before. 2y

TheQuietQuill I always found the part where pa smokes the meat in a hollow tree to be the most interesting in this chapter. Makes me want to try it haha! 2y

sblbooks This is a reread for me. I also have watched the series several times. What struck me in the first chapter was how hard everyone in the family had to work including the kids. 2y

melissajayne @TheQuietQuill mine too. 2y

melissajayne @sblbooks very, very common with farming families. My grandpa remembers taking nails out of boards that they were going to use for a chicken coop and having to straighten the nails, as they were going to use them again (my grandpa‘s family didn‘t hv a lot of money & things had to be reused as much as possible). 2y

melissajayne It didn‘t strike me until now that how much of the pig that was butchered was used. I‘ve had cracklings and don‘t really care for them; my dad on the other hand, really likes them. 2y

BarbaraJean This is my first time reading the series. I‘m not sure why I never read them as a kid—my mom and I watched the TV series all the time! I was struck by the description of headcheese 🤢 And, like so many others, by how nothing went to waste (I guess that includes headcheese). I loved the description of the girls playing in the attic among the squash and pumpkins. And “It wasn‘t Susan‘s fault that she was only a corncob.” 😂 2y

megnews @BarbaraJean so sweet how Laura wouldn‘t hold Mary‘s doll unless Susan wasn‘t around so she wouldn‘t hurt her feelings. 2y

megnews @TheAromaofBooks my plan is to read a chapter a day straight through but take 1 day discussion between each book. 2y

TheAromaofBooks Perfect, thank you!! 2y

keys_on_fire For me, what stood out was the smoking scene. My brother loves (and is really good!) to smoke brisket, pulled pork, turkey, etc., but he does it with a modern machine and because it tastes good. Seeing the Ingalls use a hollowed out log and because they HAD to was really interesting and humbling. 2y

Q84 I've read this one before but never finished the series. I have seen all the episodes. 2y

IamIamIam @TheAromaofBooks I also loved Garth Williams's illustrations! Charlotte's Web was another childhood favorite and I always loved the illustrations! The drawings of Laura remind me so much of Fern! ❤️ 2y

IamIamIam This first chapter made me realize just how suburban my life is! We are so far removed from the reality of sustaining ourselves off the land, especially where I live! How eye opening it was to read about butchering a pig and smoking venison in a hollowed out tree! 2y

megnews @IamIamIam i didn‘t realize Charlotte‘s Web was Williams‘ work too! I love those illustrations as well! 2y

TheAromaofBooks @IamIamIam - My husband and I were talking last night about how even though we grew up rural and have raised animals that we sent off to get butchered, even that is still a whole different thing from actually slaughtering and processing your own meat! It's so much work! Even the not-meat food - drying and hanging things in the attic and that sort of thing is so outside how we think about food these days. 2y

IamIamIam @TheAromaofBooks I'm from the suburbs outside of NYC! The closest I've come to hearing about the butchering process is the local living history community museum!! 🤣 I loved reading about their attic and the dried herbs and vegetables stored up there. So cute that they used the pumpkins as stools! ❤️ 2y

megnews @IamIamIam I LOVE living history museums. We have two not too far from us: Hale Farm and Sauder Village. I love Greenfield Village at the Henry Ford Museum as well as Colonial Williamsburg. I drug my kids to these places all the time. My son was endlessly fascinated with glass blowing and blacksmithing. We learned so much at these places. 2y

IamIamIam @megnews They're really such a great treasure! We live near Old Bethpage Village and my son fell in love with their Candlelight Christmas. They open the village from 5-8pm and light the houses as they would have in the 1800s and discuss different holiday traditions! We also went to Bunratty Village in Ireland, which was a trip!! It's a castle and village recreation but so vastly different than anything we've seen in the US! 🥰 2y

megnews @IamIamIam we‘ve been to Bunratty! Had the banquet at the castle. Loved it! 2y

Sparklemn It's funny the things that I notice now that I didn't when I read this as a child. The description of trees and no people for miles and miles? I grew up 100 miles due north of Pepin, and I can tell you that there were plenty of people here at that time....but mostly Native Americans, not white settlers. I guess they didn't count?? 🙄 2y

Sparklemn @BarbaraJean I remember seeing headcheese in a local deli when I was younger. It looked even grosser than I imagined. Blech. 2y

37 likes1 stack add48 comments

LitsyEvents

Little House in the Big Woods (Little House, #1) | Laura Ingalls Wilder

Repost for @megnews

The #LittleHouse chapter a day readalong is for those who want to reread and take a trip down memory lane or read for the very first time. Everyone is welcome. Let me know if you‘d like to be tagged.

megnews Thanks! 2y

IamIamIam Oooh, exciting!!! 2y

48 likes2 comments

megnews

Little House in the Big Woods (Turtleback School & Library) | Laura Ingalls Wilder

The #LittleHouse chapter a day readalong is for those who want to reread and take a trip down memory lane or read for the very first time. Everyone is welcome. Let me know if you‘d like to be tagged.

youngreadrshelf, Johanna414, erzascarletbookgasm, catebutler, LibrarianRyan, TheBookHippie, BarbaraJean, mrp27, Deblovestoread, Lmstraubie, Chrissyreadit, JaclynW, Q84, SamanthaMarie, Butterfinger, IndoorDame, sblbooks, TheAromaofBooks, Blackink_WhitePaper, Roary47, LitsyEvents

sblbooks Yes, please! 2y

TheBookHippie We just did this so I‘m going to bow out enjoy it‘s so much fun!!! 2y

Deblovestoread Yes, please! 2y

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mrp27 I‘m in! 2y

GirlNamedJesse Count me in, please! 😊 2y

KristiAhlers Please count me in! Loved this books as a little girl 2y

AnnR Please add me to the list. I recently read the 1st book as I was going to reread the whole series. It isn't any problem to reread the book again in December though. Thank you for hosting. 2y

TheAromaofBooks Yes!! I've been meaning to reread these FOREVER, so I'm excited!! 2y

Roary47 I‘m thinking I can read it through again to my oldest. I‘m going to try. 🥰 2y

BarbaraJean Ohhhh, I had forgotten this started in December!! I have so much reading I want to finish before the end of the year… but then again, I‘ve never regretted a Litsy buddy read! Please include me on your tag list and I‘ll try to keep up. 😁 2y

staci.reads Oh my gosh! Yes! I would love to reread these! Please tag me! 2y

Sparklemn Please tag me. This will be fun! 2y

Sparklemn Please tag me. Sounds like fun! 2y

megnews @rubyslippersreads @Bookwormjillk @Sresendez12 @vansa @Nelnjali @RedxoHearts reminder this starts Dec 1 2y

megnews @sblbooks @Deblovestoread @mrp27 @GirlNamedJesse @KristiAhlers @TheAromaofBooks @Roary47 @BarbaraJean @staci.reads @Sparklemn I‘ve added you to the list. 2y

megnews @Ann_Reads glad to have you. If you prefer to join with the second book in January that‘s fine too 😊 2y

Bookwormjillk Looking forward to this! 2y

rubyslippersreads Thanks for the reminder. I‘m looking forward to it. 🎻 2y

Nelnjali Very excited about this! 2y

Vansa Thank you for the reminder, would like to be tagged! 2y

IamIamIam Thanks for hosting this!! I bought the first two books at our favorite used book shop a few years ago & this is a great excuse to jump in!! I'd love to join the fun! 2y

keys_on_fire Please tag me. I have been meaning to read through the series as part of my goal to read the Newbery‘s. I‘d ❤️ to participate!! 2y

melissajayne I would like to participate; would like to be tagged 2y

AnnR @megnews After thinking about it, I probably will skip the reread and join in during January with the second book. I'll probably follow along with the December discussion so please keep me on the tag list. Thanks so much! ⛄ 🙂 2y

Vansa Is this happening? I wasn't tagged! 😭 2y

megnews @vansa starts today. Read ch 1. I‘ll post in a bit. 2y

53 likes26 comments

melissajayne

Little House in the Big Woods (Little House, #1) | Laura Ingalls Wilder

pick

4 ⭐️ While I am a big fan of the series, this book isn‘t one of my favourites. I think it‘s probably because it is fairly simple and the chapters seem to be unrelated at times. Definitely a decent start to the series. #2022 #fiction #basedonatruestory #historicalfiction #bookstagram #bookreview #littlehouse

26 likes1 stack add

melissajayne

Little House in the Big Woods (Little House, #1) | Laura Ingalls Wilder

Book no.2 for #deweysreadathon #deweyoct #readathon

21 likes1 stack add

ellie_ember

Little House in the Big Woods (Little House, #1) | Laura Ingalls Wilder

Yesterday's #bookhaul from our local library! I love #usedbooks and our #homeschoollibrary is growing! I'm especially excited about finding the complete boxes set of Little House on the Prairie in practically new condition!
#homeschoolbooks #booksforboys #booksforgirls #booksformen #booksforwomen #childrensbooks

7 likes

LitsyEvents

Little House in the Big Woods (Little House, #1) | Laura Ingalls Wilder

repost for @megnews:

#OverBookedClub picks for October, November, and December. Join in!

Comment on the original post if you want to be tagged for a #BuddyRead:
https://www.litsy.com/web/post/2470445

42 likes

LitsyEvents

Little House in the Big Woods (Turtleback School & Library) | Laura Ingalls Wilder

Repost for @megnews

See her post for details https://litsy.com/p/TDFnMFhxUnlR

LitsyEvents #BuddyRead 2y

34 likes1 comment

megnews

Little House in the Big Woods (Turtleback School & Library) | Laura Ingalls Wilder

I know it‘s a little early but for those starting their 2023 reading plans, I will be hosting a chapter a day #LittleHouse read through the series beginning Dec 1. I‘ve long wanted to reread these stories that lay the foundation for my love of reading and what better way to do so than with a group on Litsy. Whether it‘s your first or hundredth time reading this series, I look forward to you joining. Let me know if you‘d like to be tagged.

megnews If anyone is interested in cohosting, whether posting every other day, week, or completely hosting 1 of the books, I‘d love to have you. Let me know. 2y

sblbooks I'm in! 2y

megnews Tagging the #mgbuddyread gang: @youngreadrshelf @Johanna414 @erzascarletbookgasm @catebutler @LibrarianRyan @Butterfinger @TheBookHippie @BarbaraJean @TheAromaofBooks @mrp27 @Lmstraubie @Deblovestoread @Chrissyreadit @JaclynW @IndoorDame @Roary47 @lostinwords @q84 @SamanthaMarie 2y

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rubyslippersreads Please tag me. It‘s a wonderful excuse to reread these books. 2y

mrp27 I‘m in! 2y

catebutler Please tag me! 2y

TheAromaofBooks Yay!! Please add me to your list - I have been wanting to reread this series forever!! 2y

Bookwormjillk I‘m in for this! 2y

megnews @LitsyEvents 2y

Q84 Yes please! 2y

Blackink_WhitePaper Please count me in 🥰👍🏻 2y

Sresendez12 I‘m in! 2y

Vansa Would love to join this. Please tag me in your posts! 2y

Nelnjali I just had the thought the other day that I should reread these. I'd love to be tagged in your posts! 2y

RedxoHearts I may have to join in. I loved it growing up as well 2y

39 likes15 comments

Jensol77

Little House in the Big Woods (Little House, #1) | Laura Ingalls Wilder

18 likes

AllDebooks

Little House in the Big Woods (Little House, #1) | Laura Ingalls Wilder

This series was an absolute joy to read. I had such fond childhood memories evoked when reread as an adult.
What's your favourite childhood read?

Image - source unknown

15 likes

Bamazin

Little House in the Big Woods (Little House, #1) | Laura Ingalls Wilder

#28 a quick childrens book read

4 likes

MegaWhoppingCosmicBookwyrm

Little House in the Big Woods (Turtleback School & Library) | Laura Ingalls Wilder

pick

4 ⭐️s
A lovely story of a year in the life of the Ingalls family. From one winter to the next, Laura tells about how the family made a life for themselves by living off the land and their homestead. It‘s quite eye-opening how hard people back in the day had to work for things we all take for granted today. I don‘t know that I would ever call it “the simple life”, but Laura and her family certainly take pride and pleasure in the little things.

MegaWhoppingCosmicBookwyrm Forgot to say this was my April #DoubleSpin @TheAromaofBooks 😅 3y

TheAromaofBooks Woohoo!! I've been meaning to reread this series forever!! 3y

30 likes2 comments

Jody3

Little House in the Big Woods (Turtleback School & Library) | Laura Ingalls Wilder

pick

In all honesty, I could understand why. Laura Ingalls Wilder is without a doubt one of the best children's writers who ever lived. Although there are wonderful little snippets of family life, and a few hints of the conflicts between the feisty Laura and her more reserved and perfect sister Mary, the truth is in the first book there isn't much of a plot & Mrs. Wilder goes on for page after page describing how bullets were made, or butter churned.

8 likes1 stack add

BookDadGirlDad

Little House in the Big Woods (Little House, #1) | Laura Ingalls Wilder

We decided our 6 year old reminded us of Laura Ingalls....

Alwaysbeenaloverofbooks Awww adorable 💞 3y

SRWCF Half Pint! 3y

BookDragonNotWorm I totally see it! She looks lovely! 3y

73 likes3 comments

Alwaysbeenaloverofbooks

Little House in the Big Woods (Little House, #1) | Laura Ingalls Wilder

I haven‘t thought about this show/book in years but she was the first #naughty character I thought of 😝

#WishesandBlessings

Eggs

AkashaVampie I never liked her on there. 3y

Eggs 👿👼💜 3y

Alwaysbeenaloverofbooks @AkashaVampie me either!! 3y

72 likes3 comments

KaraAnn90

Little House in the Big Woods | Laura Ingalls Wilder

pick

Had to read it again 💗

3 likes

KaraAnn90

Little House in the Big Woods (Turtleback School & Library) | Laura Ingalls Wilder

pick

Wonderful 💗

1 like

Beatlefan129

Little House in the Big Woods (Little House, #1) | Laura Ingalls Wilder

pick

This book was so completely charming. It was just as good as I remember. Moving through the seasons, Laura and her little family of Ma, Pa, Mary and Baby Carrie go through all the tasks required of life in the Big Woods of Wisconsin. I especially enjoyed the dance at Grandma and Grandpa‘s house and Laura‘s first visit to town. I will definitely continue with the rest of the series. 😊

Wonderwoman89 I just bought the whole series. 3y

perfectsinner I have a box set. One of my fav series from childhood, great classic reading and wonderful to turn to when you want comfort... at least for me 3y

seibelsays On the Banks of Plum Creek was always my favorite. 3y

kspenmoll Loved this as a kid & made up stories for my sisters modeled on this series. 3y

86 likes2 stack adds4 comments

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