AUTHOR: Shirley Lewis
ISBN: 0-9684559-3-X
LIST PRICE: $14.95

Gary Paulsen has written three books about Tucket that can be read separately and independently, but which are interconnected. The saga follows the adventures of a 14 year old boy, Francis Alphonse Tucket, who was traveling on the Oregon Trail with his parents and his little sister, Rebecca on June 14, 1848, when he was captured by the Pawnee tribe. Francis is rescued from the Pawnees by a one-armed fur trader named Mr. Grimes, who takes Francis under his wing and teaches him how to survive in the harsh world of the emerging West.

While all readers seem to enjoy reading about Francis Tucket, the book is especially useful for teachers who are looking for a story about settling the West that will appeal to reluctant readers. The story is simple, short and describes the kind of life that was really led by pioneer settlers. It is a very useful selection for grades 5-6 and up, with special effectiveness with struggling readers.

The study guide provides information about the author and guides teachers through the study of plot, theme, characterization, style, vocabulary development, etc. Curriculum tie-ins include the story of the development of the West and the links to the fur trade.