Journey to the Bottomless Pit: The Story of Stephen Bishop & Mammoth Cave

As a person that has always been interested in minerals, rocks and especially caves, and a grandfather to 2 young boys with similar interests, I thought this would be a great book for them. I was right--they both loved it! The 12 year old was interested in how Mammoth Cave was formed and the historical information but he loved the adventures that Stephen Bishop experiences in exploring and mapping the tunnels and interesting finds deep underground. The 9 year old was all about the brave exploration escapades of Stephen. The two of them even acted out some of the scenes from the book together! You know it is a great children's book when it blends facts and history with an adventurous story and a hero. A young African American hero who accomplishes so much during the horribly repressive days of slavery in this country.I actually enjoyed the story myself. I have visited Mammoth Cave several times and it is an amazing place. Young Mr. Bishop lived during the era of slavery and was kept as a slave himself. And though it is not possible to speak of a slave owner in a positive way, this person did encourage Mr Bishop to explore and make discoveries. Mr. Bishop was able to educate himself in an unlikely and fascinating field of science in an age of the most oppressive of human conditions. Being married to an educator myself, I cannot imagine a better combination of ingredients for a fun, interesting and inspiring story. I bet it would be great for home schoolers.

It was a very good bookVery very good book amazing 10 outta 10 very good bookFood very good

I'm not usually one to read nonfiction books, but if the topics are history or science, then I'm all over them. In 2017, I went to visit Kentucky with my family and we saw Mammoth Cave, which sparked a new inspiration for me. As the caverns in the cave system were being described, it was like I was back there once again. Now, this book has me wanting to explore caves! Marvelous work, Elizabeth Mitchell!

Even though targeted for children in grades 4 though 8, I thoroughly enjoyed this book as an adult. It was educational (about the slave system), inspiring (making you want to explore, whatever your age and circumstances), and fun to read (telling a fascinating, adventurous story}. A great story, very well told.

I loved this book! Although primarily geared toward younger readers, I thoroughly enjoyed it. I thought the story was engaging and easily brought the reader back to an important time in our country's history that all school age children should be exposed to on many levels. Stephen Bishop seemed like a remarkable young man and reading this book makes me want to visit Mammoth Cave. Illustrations are beautiful too. Highly recommended!

I love this book. It really helps bring the history of the Caves to the reader. I love giving this book as a gift to people who have visited the caves. It adds another dimension to the experience.

I love this book. It's challenging and engaging for fourth graders. They really get a sense of the Stephen Bishop and the way he made his mark and lived an important, engaged life in spite of being trapped in slavery. I've had to order used, individual copies as my classroom set wears out. Wish it would stay in print.

A must read for anyone who has been able to go on the historical tour of Mammoth Cave in Kentucky. Its targeted for 10-11 year olds but we all enjoyed it!!