A History of Us: Reconstructing America
Recommended by the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts and Literacy as an exemplary informational text. Covering a time of great hope and incredible change, Reconstruction and Reform is a dramatic look at life after the Civil War in the newly re United States. Railroad tycoons were roaring across the country. New cities sprang up across the plains, and a new and different American West came into being: a land of farmers, ranchers, miners, and city dwellers. Back East, large scale immigration was also going on, but not all Americans wanted newcomers in the country. Technology moved forward: Thomas Edison lit up the world with his electric light. And social justice was on everyone's mind with Carry Nation wielding a hatchet in her battle against drunkenness and Booker T. Washington and W. E. B. DuBois counseling newly freed African Americans to behave in very different ways. Through it all, the reunited nation struggles to keep the promises of freedom in this exciting chapter in the A History of US. About the Series: Master storyteller Joy Hakim has excited millions of young minds with the great drama of American history in her award-winning series A History of US. Recommended by the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts and Literacy as an exemplary informational text, A History of US weaves together exciting stories that bring American history to life. Hailed by reviewers, historians, educators, and parents for its exciting, thought-provoking narrative, the books have been recognized as a break-through tool in teaching history and critical reading skills to young people. In ten books that span from Prehistory to the 21st century, young people will never think of American history as boring again.
A History of Us: Sourcebook and Index
Recommended by the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts and Literacy as an exemplary informational text.Designed to accompany Joy Hakim's ten volume A History of US or as a stand alone reference, this collection of great American documents is ideal for all students of American history. Filled with primary sources, the Sourcebook and Index traces the gradual unfolding of ideas of freedom in America through letters, declarations, proclamations, court decisions, speeches, laws, acts, the Constitution, and other writings. About the Series: Master storyteller Joy Hakim has excited millions of young minds with the great drama of American history in her award-winning series A History of US. Recommended by the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts and Literacy as an exemplary informational text, A History of US weaves together exciting stories that bring American history to life. Hailed by reviewers, historians, educators, and parents for its exciting, thought-provoking narrative, the books have been recognized as a break-through tool in teaching history and critical reading skills to young people. In ten books that span from Prehistory to the 21st century, young people will never think of American history as boring again.
Have Fun With the Presidents
It's important to learn about the U.S. presidents, but it's even better to have fun while doing it. Have Fun with the Presidents is filled with activities, recipes, games, puzzles, profiles, quotes, and fascinating facts, about all 42 American presidents, from George Washington to George W. Bush. You will learn all kinds of interesting things about the presidents, their families, and the times in which they lived, but this is much more than just a book of facts. The games and activities in Have Fun with the Presidents will give you a better understanding of each president's important contributions, interesting hobbies, and unique personality. In Have Fun with the Presidents you will learn that Herbert Hoover and his wife spoke Chinese in the White House as a way of maintaining their privacy Dwight Eisenhower was an enthusiastic cook who loved grilling on the roof of the White House Two of Theodore Roosevelt's sons managed to sneak a pony into a White House elevator so they could take it to their sick brother's bedroom George H.W. Bush hated broccoli so much he had it banned from the White House kitchen And much more!
George Washington, Spymaster
Now in paperback--the award-winning National Geographic book that presents the untold story of the invisible war behind the American Revolution. A riveting tale of intrigue, spies, counterspies and secret agents, George Washington, Spymasteris a unique and entertaining account of one of the most important chapters in our nation's history. The compelling narrative reveals the surprising role played by the first commander-in-chief, General George Washington in the War of Independence. Follow the action as 1775 dawns, and Washington finds himself in serious trouble. At war with Britain, the world's most powerful empire, his ragtag army possesses only a few muskets, some cannons, and no money. The Americans' only hope is to wage an invisible war--a war of spies, intelligence networks, and deception. Enter the shadowy world of double agents, covert operations, codes and ciphers--a world so secret that America's spymaster himself doesn't know the identities of some of his agents. Meet members of the elusive Culper Ring, uncover a "mole" in the Sons of Liberty, and see how invisible ink and even a clothesline are used to send secret messages. You can even use Washington's own secret codebook, published here for the first time. Experience at close quarters the successes and failures of the Americans as they strive to outwit the British. Meet the chief of covert operations, one Benjamin Franklin, and several other surprising players in America's secret war. Author Thomas B. Allen has sifted through dozens of historical documents and coded letters to uncover the facts about a time shrouded in secrets. Archival art, coupled with lively pen-and-ink sketches by children's illustrator Cheryl Harness, detail all the action and adventure of this momentous tale. Like the highly acclaimed hardback, this little paperback is sure to have a big impact on the imagination of readers everywhere. National Geographic supports K-12 educators with ELA Common Core Resources.Visit www.natgeoed.org/commoncore for more information.
george vs. george
There are two sides to every story. Rosalyn Schanzer's engaging and wonderfully illustrated book brings to life both sides of the American Revolution. The narrative introduces anew the two enemies, both named George: George Washington, the man who freed the American colonies from the British, and George III, the British king who lost them. Two leaders on different sides of the Atlantic, yet with more in common than we sometimes acknowledge. We are lead through their story, and the story of their times, and see both sides of the arguments that divided the colonies from the Kingdom. Was King George a "Royal Brute" as American patriots claimed? Or was he, as others believed, "the father of the people?" Was George Washington a scurrilous traitor, as all the king's supporters claimed? Or should we remember and celebrate him as "the father of his country?" Who was right? History teaches us that there are two sides to every story. Rosalyn Schanzer's book is an accessible account of one the most vital periods in American history. It is also a timeless lesson in seeing history from different points of view. The author spent two years researching books, paintings, cartoons, and descriptions of Revolutionary times. She uses art, text, and first-hand accounts to illustrate how history should never be reduced to simplistic conflicts between the "good guys" and the "bad guys." Her illustrations, and her engaging quote bubbles, bring the Revolution to life again, and allow the characters of the period to speak for themselves. Through its lively text, detailed illustrations, and fully authenticated quotes, George vs. George shines fresh light on both sides of the story of our country's formative years.
Louisiana
Fully revised and expanded with full-color pictures. Louisiana's history is explored in this carefully researched textbook tracing the Pelican State's history from the native Houma and Caddo Indians through the Civil War and Reconstruction to such recent events as Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Including such multidisciplinary topics as the state's geography and the resources of its deltas and expansive forests, the structure of the governing body from the state to the parish level, and the diverse cultural traditions and communities, the textbook enables Louisiana teachers to address all curriculum requirements.
The Story of the World
This comprehensive, 8.5" x 11" curriculum guide and activity book contains map activities, coloring pages, games, projects, review questions, cross-references to illustrated encyclopedias, and extensive book lists. Children and parents love the activities, ranging from cooking projects to crafts, board games to science experiments, and puzzles to projects. Each Story of the World Activity Book provides a full year of history study when combined with the Textbook, Audiobook, and Tests--each available separately to accompany each volume of The Story of the World Activity Book. Activity Book 1 Grade Recommendation: Grades 1-5.
The Illustrated Book of Knights
"Lots of information, spiced with bits of legend and story, makes this a wonderful book!"--Chicago Sunday Tribune"A welcome addition to any library."--BooklistA celebration of all things chivalrous, this fascinating book features page after page of colorful pictures of heroic knights, fair maidens, and deadly weapons. It recounts captivating tales of life as it really was a thousand years ago, among the crusaders who followed Richard the Lionheart to the Holy Lands, as well as the much-loved legends of Camelot and King Arthur's Round Table.Author and artist Jack Coggins wrote and illustrated several books on subjects ranging from space travel to underwater exploration. His expertise in arms and armor is reflected in the authenticity of these illustrations of medieval weapons. Coggins also provides an informed and lively perspective on the training, duties, and benefits of knighthood.
The Great Fire
Jim Murphy's Newbery Honor Book available for the first time in paperback.The Great Fire of 1871 was one of most colossal disasters in American history. Overnight, the flourshing city of Chicago was transformed into a smoldering wasteland. The damage was so profound that few people believed the city could ever rise again.By weaving personal accounts of actual survivors together with the carefully researched history of Chicago and the disaster, Jim Murphy constructs a riveting narrative that recreates the event with drama and immediacy. And finally, he reveals how, even in a time of deepest dispair, the human spirit triumphed, as the people of Chicago found the courage and strength to build their city once again.
The Story of the World
What terrible secret was buried in Shi Huangdi's tomb? Did nomads like lizard stew? What happened to Anansi the Spider in the Village of the Plantains? And how did a six-year-old become the last emperor of Rome? Told in a straightforward, engaging style that has become Susan Wise Bauer's trademark, The Story of the World series covers the sweep of human history from ancient times until the present. Africa, China, Europe, the Americas--find out what happened all around the world in long-ago times. This first revised volume begins with the earliest nomads and ends with the last Roman emperor. The Story of the World, Volume 1 includes maps, a timeline, more illustrations, and additional parental aids. Available in Hardcover, Paperback, and Audiobook. This read-aloud series is designed for parents to share with elementary-school children. Enjoy it together and introduce your child to the marvelous story of the world's civilizations. Each Story of the World volume provides a full year of history and geography study when combined with the Activity Book, available separately to accompany each volume of The Story of the World Text Book. For older students (grade 4 and above), add the Test and Answer Key to increase the rigor of the curriculum. Volume 1 Grade Recommendation: Grades 1-4.
Our Documents
Our Documents is a collection of 100 documents that the staff of the National Archives has judged most important to the development of the United States. The entry for each document includes a short introduction, a facsimile, and a transcript of the document. Backmatter includes further reading, credits, and index. The book is part of the much larger Our Documents initiative sponsored by the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), National History Day, the Corporation for National and Community Service, and the USA Freedom Corps.
Tools of the Ancient Greeks
Tools of the Ancient Greeks: A Kid's Guide to the History and Science of Life in Ancient Greece explores the scientific discoveries, athletic innovations, engineering marvels, and innovative ideas created more than two thousand years ago. Through biographical sidebars, interesting facts, fascinating anecdotes, and fifteen hands-on activities, readers will learn how Greek innovations and ideas have shaped world history and our own world view.
New York 1609-1776
Believe it or not, New York's past was as wild, exciting, and contentious as its present. It's hard to imagine now that New York City was once a wilderness, but Manhattan takes its name from an Algonquian Indian word meaning "hilly island." Henry Hudson's haul of fine furs convinced the Dutch to establish their colony at the gateway to the New World, and the island was bought from the Native Americans. Once settled, New York soon became the crucible of commerce in America, and the steely spirit of New Yorkers was forged fast. The narrative of New York has been marked ever since with the spirit of its inhabitants' fierce independence and individuality. National Geographic supports K-12 educators with ELA Common Core Resources.Visit www.natgeoed.org/commoncore for more information.
Crossing Bok Chitto
There is a river called Bok Chitto that cuts through Mississippi. In the days before the War Between the States, in the days before the Trail of Tears, Bok Chitto was a boundary. On one side of the river lived the Choctaws. On the other side lived the plantation owners and their slaves. If a slave escaped and made his way across Bok Chitto, the slave was free.Thus begins Crossing Bok Chitto, told by award-winning Choctaw storyteller Tim Tingle and brought to life with the rich illustrations of Jeanne Rorex Bridges.Martha Tom, a young Choctaw girl, knows better than to cross Bok Chitto, but one day--in search of blackberries--she disobeys her mother and finds herself on the other side. A tall slave discovers Martha Tom. A friendship begins between Martha Tom and the slave's family, most particularly his young son, Little Mo. Soon afterwards, Little Mo's mother finds out that she is going to be sold. The situation seems hopeless, except that Martha Tom teaches Little Mo's family how to walk on water to their freedom.Choctaw storyteller Tim Tingle blends songs, cedar flute, and drum with tribal lore to bring the lore of the Choctaw Nation to life in lively historical, personal, and traditional stories. His collection of stories Walking the Choctaw Road was selected as the Oklahoma Book of the Year.Artist Jeanne Rorex Bridges traces her heritage back to her Cherokee ancestors. Crossing Bok Chitto is her first fully illustrated book.
Day in a Colonial Home
Published in cooperation with the Newport Preservation Society (Newport, RI). With photos and illustrations.
The Great Pyramid
"Mann conveys the story as adventure without ever resorting to melodrama and explores the history and architecture... in highly readable form." --Booklist Here's the story of the Great Pyramid and the people who built it. In the author's telling, the Old Kingdom comes alive: a nation of farmers living on the green edge of a harsh desert with a king who was a god in life and in death. Tens of thousands of farmers left home each year to chisel hard stone without iron tools and move 10-ton blocks up steep grades without the use of a wheel, all to the glory of the Pharaoh. Wonders of the World series The winner of numerous awards, this series is renowned for Elizabeth Mann's ability to convey adventure and excitement while revealing technical information in engaging and easily understood language. The illustrations are lavishly realistic and accurate in detail but do not ignore the human element. Outstanding in the genre, these books are sure to bring even the most indifferent young reader into the worlds of history, geography, and architecture. "One of the ten best non-fiction series for young readers." -- Booklist
John Sutter and the California Gold Rush
In this action-packed graphic novel, witness the discovery of gold at John Sutter's mill in 1848. Eye-popping, comic book-style artwork and easy-to-read, nonfiction text offer an appealing, accessible alternative for struggling and reluctant readers or any graphic novel fan. An additional information section provides key facts and further understanding, making this book a must-have in any home, classroom, or library.
A Kid’s Look at Colorado
A rich source of information on Colorado's unique past and exciting present.
Stonewall Jackson
When young Thomas Jackson was promoted three times in 15 months during the United States-Mexican War, his superior officers saw that he had the potential to be a great leader. Fourteen years later, in the early days of the Civil War, General Jackson quickly became a Confederate hero. Throughout the Shenandoah Valley Campaign, at Manassas, and at Chancellorsville, Jackson repeatedly proved his courage, loyalty, and honor. Stonewall Jackson: Spirit of the Sout tells the story of the general who rallied the South during the first two years of the Civil War. Explore Jackson's days at the United States Military Academy at West Point and his later teaching career at Virginia Military Institute. Discover how his actions at the Battle of First Manassas earned him the nickname "Stonewall." Meet the man whose death General Robert E. Lee mourned as the loss of his "right hand."
Rebuilding a Nation
After the Civil War ended in April 1865, the country needed to rebuild itself. Yet putting the country back together was not a simple task: Too much blood had been shed and too much hatred lingered between the North and the South. Many questions remained: How could the loyalty of former Confederates be assured? What would become of the thousands of freed slaves? Though President Abraham Lincoln had prepared plans for the restoration of the country, he was assassinated before he could begin them. Rebuilding a Nation: Picking Up the Pieces tells the story of a period of great change for the United States. Discover the impeachment trial of Andrew Johnson and its roots in his disagreements with Congress about Reconstruction. Explore the three constitutional amendments that became law during this period, giving all Americans new rights. Meet the African American men who were elected during Reconstruction, as well as Booker T. Washington, who, as a freedman, was able to realize his dreams of getting an education.
Jefferson Davis And the Confederacy
When Jefferson Davis announced the secession of his home state of Mississippi from the Union, he didn't expect that he would soon be elected president of the Confederate States of America. As a veteran of the United States-Mexican War, he had planned on taking a military role in the newly formed country. Instead, Davis faced the greatest challenge of his life: unifying states that were keenly interested in preserving states' rights and fighting a war against an established and better-supplied country -- the United States. Jefferson Davis and the Confederacy tells the story of a man who was devoted to his country to the bitter end. Explore Davis's years as an army officer, a congressman, and as secretary of war. Meet the Confederate States' only president and Varina Anne, the "Daughter of the Confederacy." Discover the hardships Davis faced in keeping the Confederacy together, from a food shortage to a spy in the Confederate White House.
Vietnam War Crimes
This collection of essays discusses some of the atrocities that occurred during the Vietnam War, and presents arguments for why they were committed, and why they were covered up. Readers will evaluate the positive and negative reactions by the American and Vietnamese people to these crimes, such as the My Lai Massacre.
Let Them Play
Segregated Charleston, SC, 1955: There are 62 official Little League programs in South Carolina -- all but one of the leagues is composed entirely of white players. The Cannon Street YMCA All-Stars, an all-black team, is formed in the hopes of playing in the state's annual Little League Tournament. What should have been a time of enjoyment, however, turns sour when all of the other leagues refuse to play against them and even pull out of the program. As the only remaining Little League team in the state, Cannon Street was named state winner by default, giving the boys a legitimate spot in the Little League Baseball World Series held in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. While the Cannon Street team is invited to the game as guests, they are not allowed to participate since they have not officially "played" and won their state's tournament. Let Them Play takes its name from the chant shouted by the spectators who attended the World Series final. Author Margot Theis Raven recounts the inspiring tales of the Cannon Street All-Stars as they arrived in Williamsport, PA and never got the chance to play for the title thanks to the bigotry and ignorance of the South Carolina teams. Winning by forfeit, the Cannon Streeters were subsequently not allowed to participate in Williamsburg because they had not "played" their way into the tournament. Let Them Play is an important civil rights story in American history with an even more important message about equality and tolerance. It's a tale of humanity against the backdrop of America's favorite pastime that's sure to please fans of the sport and mankind. This summer will mark the 50th year since the fans' shouts of Let Them Play fell on deaf ears and 14 boys learned a cruel lesson in backwards politics and prejudice. This book can help teach us a new lesson and assure something like this never happens again.
