The Jumping-Off Place

The Jumping-Off Place

The Jumping-Off Place By Marian Hurd McNeely Illustrated by William Siegel Newbery Honor Book (1930) In the vast and rugged Dakotan prairie of 1910, the four orphaned Linville siblings—Becky, Dick, Phil, and Joan—set out to fulfill their late Uncle Jim’s dream of “proving up” on a homestead claim. Determined and resourceful, they face harsh weather, financial struggles, and the threat of claim jumpers, all while learning what it truly means to build a home. Through perseverance and courage, the Linvilles earn the respect of their neighbors and discover the deep-rooted beauty of prairie life. What begins as a duty to honor their uncle’s legacy becomes a journey of love, growth, and belonging as they decide to stay and make South Dakota their home. Richly illustrated by William Siegel, The Jumping-Off Place is an inspiring tale of resilience and the pioneering spirit that will captivate readers of all ages.