What Was the Children's Blizzard of 1888?

The terrifying true story of the deadly blizzard that unexpectedly slammed the Midwest, catching many young lives in its path—part of the New York Times bestselling What Was? series, featuring 16 pages of photos.

On January 12, 1888, an unforseen blizzard broke out in the middle of an unseasonably warm day across the Midwestern United States. As a result, hundreds of children and teachers found themselves stranded inside schoolhouses with no food, no heat, and very few options. Days passed, and over 235 people died as result of the harsh snow of the Schoolhouse Blizzard, but many were able to survive thanks to the bravery of others in their communities. Readers will learn all about the disastrous weather conditions and the advancements in forecasting that have since prevented similar tragedies.