american history | The Journey of Two

All Together in One Place is a historical fiction novel by Jane Kirkpatrick set in 1852. It chronicles the journey of a number of families moving west on the Oregon Trail. It reminds me of the Commodore 64 game I played in middle school. But with much more vivid detail and emotion than the game ever imparted. The characters endure so many struggles: cholera, thirst, hunger, devastation of many kinds. It is sad and heartening at the same time. Not the most sophisticated writing I’ve ever read but the simplicity sometimes make it more relatable and easy to read and enjoy. I definitely recommend it, especially if you are new to historical fiction; I think it could bring new readers to the genre. It is the first in a series and I look forward to reading the next installments.