Young Elspeth and Robbie must flee Scotland when they are suddenly orphaned and will be separated by the 19th century welfare system. They escape to Canada, only to find incredible difficulties and adventures as Elspeth tries to care for wee Robbie. Each chapter brings new challenges as they join an emigrant movement to the western prairies. Will they survive? Can they manage to stay together in spite of all the forces working against them? The anticipation keeps the pages turning. Ages 11-adult will enjoy this adventure based in a historical setting.

This collection of biographies of ten early scientists(580 b.c.-850 a.d.) is probably only useful for elementary researchers or very low-level middle school students. The information is not in-depth,although it is presented in very readable and entertaining chapters. Granted that little information may be available on these scholars, the chapters barely mention the contributions each made outside of science (like Aristotle). Each scientist does have a physical depiction included and some other black and white pictures are scattered throughout the text. The index is very small, but probably useful enough for the amount of information presented.