Book reviews
“Through the eyes of two young men, one Indian, one white, The Longest Walk brings to life the Walking Purchase that ended a half-century of trust and harmony between Native Americans and white Pennsylvanians. The stories of all the major actors—the Penns, James Logan, William Allen, Benjamin Franklin, and several Native American leaders—are vividly told and interwoven with the stories of the boys and their families. Baker skillfully presents differences among both Indians and whites, and conveys the nature of life on the frontier. This excellent, fast-paced historical novel brings the world of colonial Pennsylvania to life with both historical understanding and literary skill.”
— Dr. William A. Pencak, Professor of History, Penn State University
“The Longest Walk helps readers understand the many grievances borne by Native Americans that led to terrorist attacks on frontier settlers and that eventually resulted in the French and Indian War. Through the adventures of young Matt Scull and the Indian John Combush, history comes alive. The reader participates in the Walking Purchase and discovers that Thomas Penn, son and heir of William Penn, was less than honest in his dealing with the Lenape. This book would be an excellent supplement in history classrooms that would help students (and us all) to discover meaning in history.”
—Leo West, editor of the “News and Views” newsletter and the “Social Studies Journal,” publications of the Pennsylvania Council for the Social Studies.
“This book belongs in every school library. It would be an excellent supplement in history classrooms to help understand the origin of some of the events that plays such a large part in white/Native American relations, and certainly boost the interest level for studnets. The characters are compelling and the plot exciting, with fast action and escalating suspense. It is very entertaining and really makes history come alive.”
—Beverly Rowe, MyShelf.com and TeensReadToo.com