Are We There Yet?: The First Road Trip Across the USA
by Stacy McAnulty; illus. by Elizabeth Baddeley
Primary, Intermediate    McElderry    48 pp.
3/25    9781665937474    $19.99
e-book ed.  9781665937481    $10.99

In 1903, when Vermont doctor Horatio Nelson (1872–1955) began his attempt to cross the United States in an automobile he had yet to learn to drive, cars were still seen as a novelty, and the idea of an interstate highway system couldn’t even be dreamt of. Over nine weeks, with many starts and stops, Nelson and young mechanic Sewall Crocker raced from San Francisco to New York, attempting to complete the unprecedented feat in less than three months. Thanks to the press the journey garnered, it convinced many that horseless carriages could someday be dependable modes of long-distance transportation. McAnulty’s witty telling of Nelson’s grand adventure is a delight. Interesting and comedic details are given center stage here, informing readers and providing compelling suspense. Baddeley’s digital illustrations effortlessly convey the many ups and downs (and breakdowns) of the trip while matching the jovial tone of McAnulty’s text. Bright colors pop off the page with comic-style inserts acting as snapshots of the trip. Back matter includes a map of their route with an inset timeline as well as a listing of “fun facts” and source notes. A riveting episode from history presented with joy, laughter—and a precious canine companion.

From the March/April 2025 issue of The Horn Book Magazine.