Laura Ingalls Wilder's By the Shores of Silver Lake captivates readers with vivid descriptions of frontier life and engaging storytelling. Critics praise its historical authenticity and character development, though some note a slower pace and lack of action compared to earlier books in the series. An enriching read, particularly for fans of pioneer narratives.

A reader who enjoys By the Shores of Silver Lake would typically appreciate historical fiction, tales of pioneer life, and coming-of-age stories. Fans of Little House on the Prairie and Anne of Green Gables will find this book engaging for its rich depiction of frontier challenges, family bonds, and a young girl's growth.

In By the Shores of Silver Lake by Laura Ingalls Wilder, 12-year-old Laura Ingalls and her family move from Plum Creek, Minnesota, to the Dakota Territory following financial hardships and Laura’s sister Mary’s blindness due to scarlet fever. They settle temporarily in a railroad camp before finding a new homestead by Silver Lake, where Laura begins to mature and take on more responsibilities. The book contains depictions of homicide, dated and racist language toward Indigenous Americans, and ableism.

Nostalgic / Heartwarming / Adventurous / Melancholic / Inspirational

- Laura Ingalls Wilder based By the Shores of Silver Lake on her own experiences of moving with her family to De Smet, South Dakota, in the late 1870s during the American frontier expansion.
- The novel is part of the beloved Little House series, which has been adapted into various stage productions and television series over the years.
- Laura Ingalls Wilder wrote By the Shores of Silver Lake during the Great Depression, and it was published in 1939, reflecting themes of hope and resilience.

**Laura Ingalls**  
The curious and free-spirited protagonist, who is 12 years old, known for her energetic nature and deep appreciation for nature and adventure, balances her sense of duty to her family with her desire for freedom.

**Charles Ingalls**  
Laura's optimistic and hardworking father, whose jovial nature and laughter make him a cornerstone of the family, leading them westward in search of better opportunities.

**Caroline Ingalls**  
The cautious and resourceful mother of the Ingalls family, who manages the household with stoicism and resourcefulness despite her reluctance to move west.

**Mary Ingalls**  
Laura’s responsible and patient older sister, who adjusts to life after becoming blind and remains a source of motivation and support for Laura.

**Big Jerry**  
A protective and bold character of French and Indigenous American descent, known for his vibrant personality and for aiding the Ingalls family on their journey.

Laura Ingalls Wilder

Middle grade

Novel

Little House

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore By the Shores of Silver Lake reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read By the Shores of Silver Lake | SuperSummary

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore By the Shores of Silver Lake and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

By the Shores of Silver Lake Summary and Study Guide

Background

By the Shores of Silver Lake Background

chapter

chapterType

section

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-6

By the Shores of Silver Lake Chapters 1-6 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 7-12

By the Shores of Silver Lake Chapters 7-12 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 13-18

By the Shores of Silver Lake Chapters 13-18 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 19-25

By the Shores of Silver Lake Chapters 19-25 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 26-32

By the Shores of Silver Lake Chapters 26-32 Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

By the Shores of Silver Lake Character Analysis

theme

Themes

By the Shores of Silver Lake Themes

Symbols & Motifs

By the Shores of Silver Lake Symbols & Motifs

quote

citation

Important Quotes

By the Shores of Silver Lake Important Quotes

primaryCharacter

Essay Topics

By the Shores of Silver Lake Essay Topics

By the Shores of Silver Lake

Before You Read

Super Short Summary

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read By the Shores of Silver Lake?

Reading Age

Book Details