What do readers think of When the Sky Turned to Dust by Catherine Matthias? Write your own review.

It is very hard to imagine the Great American Dust Bowl which tore families apart and caused widespread death and destruction in the 1930's. Author, Catherine Matthias with extensive research vividly describes the effects of the dust storms that you can almost hear, taste and smell the air. Only by closing one's eyes can you visualize the darkness.
Nine year old Daniel and his sister, twelve year old Caroline mature quickly when they are faced with the dust storms in Kansas during the '30's. Their family dynamics start to change and they find themselves helping their father protect and take care of their family farm. High emotion runs through the story as Daniel and Caroline experience despair, frustration, loneliness, anger and grief all while continuing to try to maintain hope and positivity.

I thoroughly enjoyed the author's description of the cross country train rides that Daniel and Caroline experienced. I fondly remember being awed at the Kansas City train station and enjoying the sleeping and dining cars. Just like Daniel and Caroline, meeting and interacting with strangers on the train was a highlight. As the story enfolds, the reader becomes protective of Daniel and Caroline and yearns for their struggles to end and "regular routines" to return.

"When the Sky Turned to Dust" is ideal for YA readers due to the author's detailed description of the devastation of the Dust Bowl that occurred during the 1930's. It has a very good story line full of emotion and conflict.

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.

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!

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.

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.