Minn of the Mississippi facts for kids
Minn of the Mississippi is an exciting children's book written and illustrated by Holling C. Holling. Even though it's not very long, it tells a full story like a novel, rather than just being a picture book. It was first published in 1951 and received a special award called the Newbery Honor the very next year. This book takes young readers on an amazing adventure following a brave turtle down one of the world's most famous rivers.
Contents
The Story of Minn
Minn of the Mississippi introduces us to a tiny snapping turtle named Minn. She hatches in a special place called the headwaters of the Mississippi River. This is where the mighty river begins its long journey.
Minn's Amazing Journey
From her starting point, Minn begins an incredible trip. She travels all the way down the Mississippi River, seeing many different places. Her journey takes her through the Midwestern United States and then into the American South. Finally, she reaches Louisiana, where the huge river empties into the Gulf of Mexico. Along the way, Minn faces many challenges and sees all sorts of wildlife and landscapes. The book teaches readers about the river's path and the nature found along its banks.
About the Book
Holling C. Holling was known for his unique way of combining stories with educational facts. Minn of the Mississippi is a great example of his style.
The Author and Illustrations
Holling C. Holling was not just a writer; he was also a talented artist. Like his other books, Minn is filled with beautiful pictures. It has many full-page color paintings that bring the story to life. Even the pages with text have lots of black-and-white drawings. These detailed pen-and-ink pictures are often in the margins. They come with captions that help explain what's happening in the story. These illustrations make the book a fun way to learn about geography and nature.
Awards and Recognition
Minn of the Mississippi was recognized for its quality and storytelling. In 1952, it received the Newbery Honor award. This is a very important award given to authors of outstanding children's literature in the United States. It shows that the book was highly praised for its writing and its ability to engage young readers.