Hannah's Story by Ann Chandler is a beautiful tale of a 9-year-old girl who escaped the Killough Massacre in East Texas in 1838 by hiding in a berry vine. From there, she has many adventures. First, she is rescued by a Cherokee Indian and adopted into their tribe where she teaches them English and the ways of the white man (at least to the extent that a 9-year-old girl can). They become her family for several years until she is finally reunited with what is left of her blood relatives.

This book is written journal style and appropriate for the musings of a young child. It is easy to read and understand. This is a charming story that reminds us of how childhood misfortunes and serendipities are tools that form us into the adults we become. I would highly recommend it for anyone who enjoys historical fiction or desires to learn about the lives and plight of Native Americans during the westward settlement of our nation. It would make a fun history assignment for children and is also a pleasant read for adults.