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There are currently 20 member reviews
for When the Sky Turned to Dust
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Alison W. (Saint Marys, GA)
Pleasantly surprised
I must admit this is not my genre to read, but I was surprised at the way it reels the reader in the few chapters. This is a difficult period in history and sometimes it is painful to envision the families and their struggles. While I did feel there were aspects of the novel that could be considered repetitive, I enjoyed the immersion into the Dust Bowl Well paced and engaging
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Cecelia J. (Gleneden Beach, OR)
When the Sky Turned to Dust
As a former teacher, I wish I had had this book to read to middle schoolers and up to the 8th graders to whom I taught US History. It is so well researched about life during the dust storms of the 1930s but also tells a gripping story about the Dolans and their neighbors and family during those years. I was especially impressed by the family dynamics that led part of the family to move to New York to avoid the dust and save their younger children. but mostly the 2 older children who stayed with their father to keep their farm working as best they could. Thank you to Catherine Matthias for creating this engrossing story.
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Maren C. (HARVARD, MA)
An homage to classic children's historical fiction
I was initially drawn to Catherine Matthias' When the Sky Turned to Dust because the premise reminded me of books I would have read when I was in upper elementary school: Little House on the Prairie and the Dear America series, primarily.
Matthias has a clear and easy-to-read writing style and she expertly incorporates historical elements into her story. The supporting back matter in the book is especially helpful for readers who may otherwise lack context. Choosing to reference Out of the Dust is a wise decision, as When the Sky Turned to Dust would make a good companion piece for school curriculums. I don't necessarily see upper elementary school children picking up this book independently.
There were some poignant and sad moments in the book, although, at times, it felt like some of the major events that occurred did not have enough build up. A short read, When the Sky Turned to Dust could have benefited from spending more time building suspense so the reader more deeply connects with Caroline's experiences and feelings.
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Rita L. (Bridgewater, MA)
Review of "WHEN THE SKY TURNED TO DUST"
I chose this book because the subject has always interested me. The book, The Worst Hard Times by Timothy Egan is fantastic. My parents grew up on farms in rural Iowa during this time and, although they did not experience the dust, they did have to deal with the record breaking heat, drought, and cold of that period.
So- I enjoyed the book as I was able to imagine a family struggling during the dust bowl era but the children, Daniel and Caroline were almost TOO good to be believable. I was actually glad to read of Carolin's anger toward her mother.
The author noted the myriad chores that the children had to deal with each day, but I'm left with a perplexing question. With no electricity, why is nothing mentioned about bringing in wood,coalfor heating or cooking, filling the kerosene lanterns? I know my parents in Iowa did not receive electricity until 1942. I wish the author had addressed this and the anticipation of rural electrification in mid-America (REA), a program during the Roosevelt administration.
I think this would be an excellent book for middle school students. It's good historical fiction and Daniel's vocabulary would make for some lively discussions!
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Brenda W. (Wilkes Barre, PA)
A good read
When the Sky Turned to Dust is a beautifully written story that takes place during the Great Depression ant the Dust Bowl. The story comes to life and really keeps you reading. The writing is vibrant and so descriptive. I actually felt like I was there ,it just immersed me in the setting. It is at times heartbreaking and so realistic.
I feel like this is a great YA book for ages 12. This is an excellent story to be introduced to the Dust Bowl and Great Depression.
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Linda G. (Puyallup, WA)
The Dust Bowl explained
When the sky turned to dust is a very good novel especially for young readers. I would suggest it be read to classes aged 10-16 by a teacher who could answer questions the students might have. There is sorrow in the story but there is family love and care.
