Hattie Big Sky by Kirby Larson is another book on the 2009 Rebecca Caudill Nominee list. This historical novel, set in 1918, is the story of Hattie Brooks and her determination to make it as a homesteader. Hattie grew up in Iowa raised by random relatives because of the early death of her parents. At 16, she receives a letter from an uncle in Montana who left Hattie all his land when he fell ill. She packs up and moves out West by herself.

This book was very interesting to read because you learn a lot of "tricks of the trade" of farming. You also gain a great appreciation for the folks that settled the West and today's farmers. By reading this book, you understand the hard life these people endure.

Definitely check this one out!