The Journey West

Based on a True Family Story

In the spring of 1865, five-year-old Janus Fletcher's world turned upside down.

President Lincoln has been shot. The Civil War is ending. And Janus's papa has made a bold decision: the Fletchers are leaving their Maine farm behind to seek a new life on the western frontier.

The Journey West: Leaving Dixfield follows Janus and his family as they pack their hopes into wagons, board noisy trains, cross muddy rivers, and step into the unknown. Along the way, Janus faces fears, wonders at new sights, and learns what it means to have courage when everything familiar fades away.

From bustling city stations to quiet campfires under endless skies, Janus discovers that adventure isn't just about places you go - it's about the family you travel with and the hope that carries you forward.

NOTE TO PARENTS and TEACHERS: The Journey West: Leaving Dixfield gently introduces young readers to the realities of loss and grief through the eyes of a child. While death is part of the historical journey - reflecting the authentic hardships of 1865 pioneer life - it is handled with care, compassion, and age-appropriate sensitivity. Moments of sorrow are balanced with themes of resilience and family strength, offering young readers not just a historical understanding, but a foundation for empathy and emotional growth. This story can open meaningful conversations about courage, trust, and healing - making it a valuable addition to classrooms, book clubs, and family reading time.