Why did not this book get wider recognition? It's a beautifully written saga of a young girl who moves with her mother, father and three young siblings to Alaska in the 60's. She vividly describes the heartships of living in the near-wilderness under severe conditions, facing and overcoming family financial problems, and above all, a tragic accident that brought her near death. It is a story of perseverance and familly ties. I would recommend it especially to young adults. It's one of the few books I wanted to start reading over again as soon as I finished.