The Dust Bowl, Diaster on the Plains

Tricia Andryszewski

ISBN 10: 1562942727 ISBN 13: 9781562942724

Publisher: Millbrook Press, 1993

Offering an explanation of the human and natural causes that led to the 1930s environmental disaster known as the Dust Bowl, this history uses photographs and diary excerpts to show the drama, intensity, and impact of the dust storms.

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From Kirkus Reviews:

In a model of concise and effective writing, the social, economic, and ecological history of the great agricultural tragedy of the 30's. Andryszewski outlines the natural state of the treeless prairies (including preexisting dust storms) and how the new settlers' farming practices set them up for failure, contrasting them with the Native American cultures that had flourished there. Vivid quotes from people who lived through the period, along with numerous photos, convey the suffering both of those who fled and those who stayed behind. The author describes Roosevelt's Agriculture Department's soil conservation programs, which saved the situation and reversed a recurrence in the 50's. Can it happen again? Andryszewski mentions current problems (water shortages; chemical contamination) and controversies over how to manage them (e.g., give much of the range back to the bison). Though most quotes aren't attributed, the general source notes should satisfy casual researchers. A fine resource. Brief bibliography; index. (Nonfiction. 9-12) -- Copyright �1993, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved.

From School Library Journal:

Grade 5-7-- A solid series entry. Although there are several books on the Depression for middle-grade students, most mention the Dust Bowl only in passing. The engagingly written text is enhanced by primary-source diary passages and clear black-and-white period photos and a few appropriate full-color illustrations. Andryszewski gives evenhanded coverage to the relevant facts and states that not everyone agreed with the measures that were taken. Patricia Lauber's Dust Bowl (Coward, 1958; o.p.), for older readers, is quite thorough but shows its age in a lack of visual appeal. Perhaps stusual appeal. Perhaps students won't be lining up to read The Dust Bowl , but it will be handy for history or literature classes about to embark on The Grapes of Wrath . --Jody McCoy, Casady School, Oklahoma City
Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.

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