Ponce De Leon: Exploring Florida And Puerto Rico (In the Footsteps of Explorers)

Famous for his search for the legendary Fountain of Youth, Spanish conquistador Ponce de León is credited with the discovery of Florida in 1513 as well as making Puerto Rico and the Gulf Stream known to the Spanish world. This sensitively written new book describes his encounters with the Calusa, the native inhabitants of Florida, and the Taino, natives of Puerto Rico. Young readers will enjoy reading about life at sea and the hardships faced by his crew. A recipe from the period is also included. Topics include - Ponce de León's life, from a page, to a squire, to Governor of a plantation - his military successes - his motivation for seeking to settle the "New World" - his discoveries of Florida and of The Tortugas - his plantation Cassava, and its role in future trade routes - the relationships he had with Native Americans: aid from the Taino Indians in farming, and the repulsion by the Calusa Natives from the Florida coast - life at sea for Ponce de León and his crew - a recipe for Cassava bread Teacher's guide available.

..." There is no sugar-coating of how either of these explorers treated the natives they encountered, their own men, or even their colleagues, in the struggle for power and prestige. Readers who enjoy information in chunks and pieces will take to these volumes...with many renderings of journeys taken, sights seen, and events unfolded, as well as sidebars containing helpful timelines. Each volume contains a handy glossary and index....Recommended for grades 4-7."