Little House On The Prairie: Reading Order Made Easy

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Post on Feb 09, 2025

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Little House on the Prairie: Reading Order Made Easy

Laura Ingalls Wilder's Little House books are beloved classics, transporting readers to a simpler time on the American frontier. But with numerous books and different publication orders floating around, figuring out the best reading order can be tricky. This guide simplifies the process, ensuring you enjoy the Little House series in the intended chronological sequence.

Understanding the Chronological Order: Following Laura's Life

The key to understanding the Little House reading order lies in recognizing that the books follow Laura Ingalls Wilder's life chronologically. Each book details a significant period of her childhood and young adulthood, moving from Wisconsin to Kansas, Minnesota, and finally South Dakota.

This is the recommended reading order:

1. Little House in the Big Woods: This is where Laura's story begins, painting a picture of her idyllic childhood in Wisconsin's forests. It sets the stage for the adventures to come.

2. Little House on the Prairie: The family's move to Kansas, facing the challenges and triumphs of pioneer life on the prairie, is vividly depicted in this installment.

3. Little Town on the Prairie: Life continues in Kansas, but the focus shifts as Laura transitions from childhood to adolescence. This book shows the Ingalls family's challenges and joys as they navigate the changing circumstances of their lives.

4. Little House in the Big Woods: This book is repeated here, because it's included as the fifth installment of the official book series. This is a matter of preference, as it may feel repetitive.

5. By the Shores of Silver Lake: The Ingalls family seeks new opportunities in Minnesota, encountering the challenges of lake life and further personal growth.

6. The Long Winter: This book is one of the most acclaimed in the series, focusing on the family's struggle to survive a harsh, prolonged winter in Minnesota. It's a powerful testament to resilience and family bonds.

7. Little Town on the Prairie: This is a repeat of a previous installment, included as the seventh book in the original series.

8. Little Town on the Prairie: This book is a repeat of the seventh book in the original series.

9. These Happy Golden Years: Laura's teenage years and her transition into adulthood are the focus here, adding a layer of romance and personal development to her journey.

10. Farmer Boy: This book deviates slightly as it tells the story of Almanzo Wilder, Laura's future husband, and his childhood on a New York farm. While not directly part of Laura's narrative, it offers valuable context and insight into Almanzo's background and upbringing, making his and Laura's eventual meeting even more poignant.

11. Pioneer Girl: This autobiography, written by Laura Ingalls Wilder herself, provides a complete perspective of her life, from her experiences as a pioneer to her success as a writer.

Why This Order Matters

Reading the books in chronological order allows you to fully appreciate Laura's development as a person and the gradual changes in her family's circumstances. It enhances the emotional impact of the stories and provides a deeper understanding of the hardships and joys of pioneer life.

Beyond the Core Series: Additional Considerations

While the above list represents the core chronological order, there are other related books you might enjoy after completing the main series:

• On the Banks of Plum Creek: Often debated in its placement, this book fits chronologically between Little Town on the Prairie and By the Shores of Silver Lake.

It's important to note that the publication order differs from the chronological order. Sticking to the chronological order provides the most enriching and immersive reading experience.

Conclusion: Embark on Your Little House Adventure

Now that you have a clear reading order, you're ready to embark on a heartwarming and captivating journey with Laura Ingalls Wilder. Prepare to be transported to a different era, to experience the resilience of the human spirit, and to fall in love with the timeless tales of the Little House books. Happy reading!