• Grade: 7 to 9

Susanna Moodie was already a published author when she emigrated from England to Upper Canada with her husband and baby in 1832. The Moodies were seeking financial security and a better life in the colony, but they found themselves struggling to make a living on a bush farm. Despite her primitive life in the backwoods and the demands of caring for her children, Susanna continued to write and publish. In 1852 her best-known book, Roughing It in the Bush, was published in England. A Canadian edition appeared in 1871. Roughing It in the Bush has endured both as a valuable social document of the Canadian pioneer experience and as a work of literature.

Anne Cimon is a writer and poet, living near Montreal, Quebec. She has published four books of poetry. Cimon has also worked as a freelance writer for many years and her book reviews and literary articles have been published in many Canadian and U.S. magazines and newspapers.

Anne Cimon's profile page

"Cimon's poet's sensitivity stands her in good stead in re-telling the life of Susannah Moodie."

The Montreal Review of Books

"The text of the book ... brings Susanna and her times to life."
"This book is recommended for both school and public libraries. Students of Canadian history and literature will find it a reliable source as well as an interesting story."

Resource Links

"This book would work well in a social studies classroom."

CM Magazine

Susanna Moodie: Pioneer Author (Quest Library)