Attack in the Rye Grass: Marcus and Narcissa Whitman by Dave and Neta Jackson

Stand alone novel

Summary: 

Perrin Whitman was twelve years old and thrilled to travel by wagon train to Oregon Territory with his missionary aunt and uncle, Dr. Marcus and Narcissa Whitman. It was 1843, and life in the wild, unsettled Northwest promised Perrin the adventure he craved—but also the opportunity to witness a fierce and tragic battle for peace and freedom.

Upon their arrival in Oregon, Perrin found an immediate friend in the young Indian girl, Shikam, whose brother would later become the famous Chief Joseph of the Nez Perce tribe. Both Perrin and Shikam had the same goal: keep peace between the white settlers and the Indians. But when another wagon train of emigrants brought measles, the Indians become terrified and angry by the sickness overtaking their people. Will Dr. Whitman be able to cure the Indians before war breaks out?

His uncle’s life is in danger, but what can Perrin do?

Opening Lines: 

Perrin Whitman ran into the house and tossed folded copy of the Daily Tribune onto his father's lap. "Is this about Uncle Marcus?" Perrin asked excitedly, brushing a hank of blond hair out of his eyes. 

His father's eyes scanned slowly down the article written by the famous publisher Horace Greeley. "Why, I do believe it is," he said slowly.