The Story of the Peace Corps

The Story of the Peace Corps by George Sullivan is a concise and informative account of the establishment and early years of the U.S. Peace Corps. First published in 1964, the book traces the origins of the organization from President John F. Kennedy's initial proposal in 1960 to its official creation in 1961. Sullivan details the selection and training processes for volunteers, who, by that time, numbered nearly 10,000 and were serving in 47 countries. The narrative highlights the Corps' diverse programs in agriculture, education, engineering, and community development. An appendix provides organizational details and lists of volunteers by region. While brief, the book offers a valuable introduction to the Peace Corps' mission and impact during its formative years. George Sullivan is a prolific American author renowned for his extensive contributions to nonfiction literature, particularly for children and young adults. Born on August 11, 1927, in Lowell, Massachusetts, he served as a journalist in the U.S. Navy from 1945 to 1948 . Over his career, Sullivan has authored more than 200 books covering a diverse array of topics, including history, science, sports, and biographies . His works are noted for their clarity and accessibility, making complex subjects understandable and engaging for young readers. Sullivan's book Built to Last was honored with the Orbis Pictus Award for Outstanding Nonfiction for Children in 2005 .…