West to Fort Edmonton

By Joan Donaldson-Yarmey

It is 1803 at the Hudson's Bay post of York Factory and fifteen year old Elias Gunn faces a dilemma. His grandfather wants his sons and grandsons to accompany him inland to Fort Edmonton to deliver the supplies the men at the fort will need to survive for a year. Elias has heard the stories about the months' long, arduous trip by York Boat and has no desire to go. But he is forced to agree by his Uncle Jonas. Elias' nemesis, his cousin, Nathaniel, who continuously picks on Elias, is also going. But he finds there is more than just rowing the boat in store for him.

Martha lives with her family in the Cree village near Fort Edmonton. She is waiting for Nathaniel to return and marry her so she can realize her dream.

Editorial review by Renee Duke

5* COMPELLING TALE OF A GRUELLING JOURNEY

With the recent demise of the famous Hudson Bay company adding to its relevance, this YA novel is one that will easily hold the attention of teens interested in how goods were transported to and from various outposts back in the early 19th century, as well as those who might wonder if they would be up to such a challenge. Well written and meticulously researched, West To Fort Edmonton is sure to have readers feel as though they are making the arduous cross-Canada trip right along with the young, definitely not-happy-to-be-there, protagonist, Elias Gunn.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0228636019
• ISBN13: 9780228636014
• Release Date: July 2025
• Publisher: BWL Publishing Inc.
• Length: 188 Pages
• Weight: 0.40 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.5" x 5.3" x 8.0"
• Age Range: 13 to 18 years
• Grade Range: Grade 8 to Postsecondary