The Sign of the Beaver facts for kids
First edition
|
|
| Author | Elizabeth George Speare |
|---|---|
| Country | United States |
| Language | English |
| Genre | Children's historical novel |
| Publisher | Houghton Mifflin |
|
Publication date
|
February 1983 |
| Media type | Print (Hardback & Paperback) & Audio Book |
| Pages | 135 |
| ISBN | 0-395-33890-5 |
| OCLC | 9219453 |
| LC Class | PZ7.S7376 Si 1983 |
The Sign of the Beaver is a popular historical novel for kids. It was written by American author Elizabeth George Speare and came out in February 1983. This book has won many awards! The story was inspired by a true event in Milo, Maine. It's about a young boy who was left alone in the wild. He became friends with a Native American boy named Attean and his grandfather. Later, this book was even made into a TV movie called Keeping the Promise.
What's the Story About?
The Sign of the Beaver tells the exciting story of Matt James Hallowell. He is a 13-year-old boy living in the 1700s. Matt and his father build a log cabin deep in the wilderness of Maine.
Then, Matt's father leaves him alone. Matt has to guard their new home and land. His father goes back to Massachusetts to bring the rest of their family. This includes Matt's mother, sister, and new baby.
Matt faces many challenges while he is alone. He learns how to survive in the wild. He also gets help from a Native American boy named Attean. Attean and his family teach Matt important survival skills.
As time passes, Matt worries his father might not return. Attean then asks Matt to join his tribe, the Beaver tribe. He invites Matt to move north with them.
Awards and Recognition
The Sign of the Beaver has received many special awards. These awards show how much people loved the book. Here are some of the honors it won:
- 1983 Josette Frank Award
- 1984 Christopher Award
- 1984 A Booklist Editors' Choice
- 1984 Horn Book Fanfare
- 1984 Scott O'Dell Award for Historical Fiction
- 1984 An American Library Association Notable Children's Book citation
- 1984 An American Library Association Best Books for Young Adults citation
- 1983–1984 Young Hoosier Book Award (nominee)
- 1989 The New York Times Best Book of the Year
