Independent Reading Level: Grades 3-5
1986 Newbery Medal, the 1986 Scott O'Dell Award for Historical Fiction, and the 1986 Golden Kite Award.

My goodness. I really liked this children's historical fiction book as a child. I'm pleased to find that my appreciation for this story of family has increased.

It's simple but not simplistic. Gentle but not fluffy. The characters' various emotions, while handled with a light touch, are real—from the youngsters to the adults. There's so much said in just a few words, and I now hear more in the story. The benefit of my adult ears added to the memory of my childhood hearing.

Back then, I enjoyed the sequel, Skylark, even more. I'm looking forward to revisiting that one too. Hopefully soon. ( )

Set in the late nineteenth century and told from young Anna's point of view, Sarah, Plain and Tall tells the story of how Sarah Elisabeth Wheaton comes from Maine to the prairie to answer Papa's advertisement for a wife and mother. Before Sarah arrives, Anna and her younger brother Caleb wait and wonder. Will Sarah be nice? Will she sing? Will she stay?

This children's literature classic is perfect for fans of Laura Ingalls Wilder's Little House on the Prairie books, historical fiction, and timeless stories using rich and beautiful language. Sarah, Plain and Tall gently explores themes of abandonment, loss and love.

Sarah, arriving from the seashores of Maine, contrasted with an isolated mid-western farm, makes a great story. Despite the hardships portrayed, I found the story comforting when I was younger and I still do. The book is well deserving of the Newbery Medal, among other literary accolades it has received. The TV mini-series starring Glenn Close and Christopher Walken is equally good, which is saying a lot since I generally avoid watching the Hallmark channel, especially the saccharin sweet holiday movies. (My apologies to any fans of the channel!)

Rating: 5 stars
Original date of publication: 1985 ( )

Lovely story with a happy ending. ( )