Hello the Boat! facts for kids

Hello the Boat! is an exciting children's historical novel written by Phyllis Crawford. The story takes place way back in 1817. It follows the adventures of a special "store-boat" as it travels down the Ohio River. The journey starts in Pittsburgh and ends in Cincinnati. The book features wonderful illustrations by Edward Laning. It was first published in 1938 and received a special award, the Newbery Honor, in 1939.

About the Book

What is "Hello the Boat!" About?

This novel tells the story of a family who lives and works on a floating store! Imagine a shop that travels on water. The main characters are the family members who run this unique business. They sell all sorts of goods to people living along the riverbanks. As they journey from Pittsburgh to Cincinnati, they meet many different people. They also face challenges and enjoy the beauty of the river. The book gives readers a peek into what life was like in America almost 200 years ago. It shows how people lived, traveled, and traded in the early 1800s.

Who Wrote "Hello the Boat!"?

The author of Hello the Boat! is Phyllis Crawford. She was an American writer known for her children's books. Crawford had a talent for bringing history to life for young readers. She often researched historical periods carefully to make her stories feel real. Her books helped children learn about different times and places in an engaging way.

Who Illustrated the Book?

The beautiful pictures in Hello the Boat! were drawn by Edward Laning. He was a talented American artist and muralist. Laning's illustrations helped readers imagine the scenes and characters in the book. His drawings added a special touch, making the historical setting even more vivid for young readers.

Life on the Ohio River in 1817

What Was a Store-Boat?

In the early 1800s, roads were not very good, and many towns were far apart. Rivers were like highways! A "store-boat" was a floating shop that traveled along rivers. These boats carried all kinds of goods, from tools and fabrics to food and household items. They would stop at small towns and settlements along the river. People living there could come to the boat to buy things they needed. It was a very important way for communities to get supplies. Life on a store-boat was busy and full of adventure, as the family had to navigate the river and deal with customers.

Traveling the Ohio River

The Ohio River was a major transportation route in the early 19th century. It connected many growing towns and cities. Traveling by boat was often the easiest and fastest way to move goods and people. However, it wasn't always easy! River travel could be dangerous. There were strong currents, hidden sandbars, and sometimes even pirates! Despite the challenges, the Ohio River was vital for trade and settlement in the American West.

Pittsburgh to Cincinnati

The journey in the book starts in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. In 1817, Pittsburgh was a growing industrial town. It was known for its iron and glass factories. It was often called the "Gateway to the West." From Pittsburgh, the store-boat travels downstream to Cincinnati, Ohio. Cincinnati was a bustling city even then. It was an important center for trade and farming. The trip between these two cities would have been a long and eventful one for the store-boat family.

Awards and Recognition

What is the Newbery Honor?

The Newbery Medal is one of the most famous awards for children's literature in the United States. It is given each year to the author of the "most distinguished contribution to American literature for children." When a book receives a "Newbery Honor," it means it was one of the very best books considered for the main award that year. It's a huge recognition for a children's book! Hello the Boat! earning a Newbery Honor in 1939 shows that it was considered an outstanding story.

Why This Book Matters

Hello the Boat! is more than just an adventure story. It helps young readers understand a unique part of American history. It shows what life was like for pioneers and traders on the frontier. By reading about the store-boat, kids can learn about early American commerce and the importance of rivers. The book also teaches about family, hard work, and adapting to new situations. It's a fun way to travel back in time!