USKids History: Book of the New American Nation (Brown Paper School) - Softcover

Egger-Bovet, Howard; Smith-Baranzini, Marlene

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0316222062 ISBN 13: 9780316222068

Publisher: Little, Brown Young Readers, 1995

Synopsis

An examination of the diverse population of the thirteen colonies and how they came together to form a new, independent nation pays particular attention to the lives of the young people of the time.

About this title

From School Library Journal:

Grade 5-7?This exciting series entry provides fascinating bits of information about the early days of our nation's history, from Washington's inauguration to the cessation of the war with Mexico. The authors make history come alive through a somewhat loose, chronologically ordered narrative that successfully combines a primary-source-based text with well-rendered, informative, black-and-white illustrations and maps. Quotations and excerpts from diaries, journals, etc. shed light upon the roles played by many of our country's first citizens; many of these entries are found in the sidebars that are distributed throughout the book. Also contributing to format's overall utility and attractiveness is the inclusion of "bait" for students, such as dramatic readings and poetry, a Mississippi River board game, and crafts and other activities, which could be used to supplement classroom textbooks. The index is sufficiently detailed, and an "If You Want to Know More" section suggests books to read, projects, and historical sites to visit. Unfortunately, experiences of fictional young people of the time are included; and for real people featured, some of their thoughts, words, and deeds are fictionalized. This is a flaw that may be difficult to forgive. Some libraries may still prefer John A. Scott's Facts on File History of the American People (Facts on File, 1989), as well as Edwin Tunis's The Young United States and Colonial Living (both Crowell, 1976).?David A. Lindsey, Lakewood High and Middle School Libraries, WA
Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Publishers Weekly:

Combining brief fictionalized accounts of historical events with factual information, profiles of notable women and men, and related projects, these titles adopt a playful approach to teaching American history. Revolution describes life in the 13 colonies and the road to independence, including the Boston Tea Party, the winter at Valley Forge and the Battle of Yorktown. The hands-on sections include a play about the Boston Massacre, a game in which players take on the roles of a customs officer and a smuggler, and a recipe for "Old Glory Ice Cream." Biographies of Phillis Wheatley and Thomas Paine, as well as sections on pirates, secret codes and an early submarine, round out an already comprehensive volume. Less focused, American Indians explores the legends, traditions and customs of the many tribes that made their homes in what is now the United States. Various spreads are devoted to coming-of-age ceremonies, Hopi architecture, the whale hunts of the Makah and other topics. Activity ideas range from weaving baskets to making spirit figures and playing traditional games. The snappy, fast-paced lessons are short enough to whet the appetite without being overwhelming; lists of books and videos and information about visiting historic sites are appended. Ages 8-12.
Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.

About this edition

• Publisher: Little, Brown Young Readers
• Publication date: 1995
• ISBN 10: 0316222062
• ISBN 13: 9780316222068
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 96
• Illustrator: Bruce T. Taylor