JUNE IS NATIONAL RIVERS AWARENESS MONTH    Our nation grew up along its rivers-harvesting from the abundance of foods in and along their banks, traveling along with their currents, and building homes along side the beautiful flowing waters. Through the years of industrial development and continuing to present day, the formally pristine rivers have become increasingly polluted-to the point that many of them are toxic and classified as "dead." Concerned people have been endeavoring to clean up the waterways and have, indeed, made progress but much more effort is needed as the situation grows more critical for endangered rivers. One of the major efforts is the program from Tom's of Maine as seen in the following press release.    June is National Rivers Awareness Month™, a time established by Tom's of Maine to inspire support and stewardship for America's troubled rivers and waterways. More than 200 million Americans live within 10 miles of a polluted river, lake, stream, or coastal area, and almost 300,000 miles of America's rivers-a source of 60 percent of our drinking water-do not meet safe water standards. Tom's-sponsored activities this month aim to change those statistics. The 30-day celebration complements Tom's of Maine's National Rivers Awareness Program, a five-year partnership with River Network, The Nature Conservancy, the National Park Service Rivers & Trails Program, and retailers across America. "Our nation's rivers and watersheds are in need of help, and it is up to us-businesses, non-profits, and individuals working together-to effect a positive change," says Tom's of Maine co-founder and President Tom Chappell.    For more information: http://www.tomsofmaine.com/about/press/2003_06_05_rivers.asp    For another source of information visit: National Rivers Awareness Program at http://www.rivernetwork.org/hottopics/index.cfm?doc_id=76    Teachers will find this resource helpful: National Rivers Month Theme Unit available at http://www.edhelper.com/DailyThemes_June_9.html    The following selection of books is a mixture of fiction and nonfiction and does include rivers outside of the North American continent-rivers world wide are in peril and deserve attention. Some of these titles simply celebrate the pleasures of life on a river, others are educational in the more traditional sense of the word; but, all are a tribute to the magnificent and vital rivers of our earth. Contributor: Sheilah Egan Reviews The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn Mark Twain    Adventure-loving Huckleberry Finn and his friend Jim set off on a series of adventures in search of fun and survival. This reprint of Twain's classic tale comes with a plastic 3-D puzzle of Huck and Jim. The story was created to appeal to boys and contains timeless elements: surviving family abuse, running away, living in nature, facing danger from men and the wild, and relying on wits and quick thinking to survive. Huck takes the reader along on his adventures--from escaping his father and setting off down the Mississippi on a raft with Jim to getting in the middle of a family feud and figuring out how to outsmart a pretend king and duke. When Jim is taken captive, Huck links up with old pal, Tom Sawyer, and the two join forces to attempt to steal Jim back. The language and some story specifics may create a gap between the story and today's readers (for example, most readers today will not appreciate the humor in the king's version of Hamlet's soliloquy), but the themes of friendship, loyalty, and self-knowledge are sure to resonate. Part of HarperChildren's "Adventure Classics" series. 2005 (orig. 1885), Harper Festival/HarperCollins Publishers, $6.99. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Carol Ann Lloyd-Stanger (Children's Literature). Best Books: Books for You: An Annotated Booklist for Senior High, 1972; National Council of Teachers of English; United States Books for You: An Annotated Booklist for Senior High, Sixth Edition, 1976; National Council of Teachers of English; United States Books for You: An Annotated Booklist for Senior High, Tenth Edition, 1988; National Council of Teachers of English; United States Recommended Literature: Kindergarten through Grade Twelve, 2002; California Department of Education; California ISBN: 0-06-075882-1 The Amazon Anne Wallace Sharp    The serious, even suspicious demeanor of the people photographed for the cover of the book sets the tone of this text on the peoples of the South American rainforests, part of the series "Indigenous Peoples of the World." The book emphasizes the desperate plight of many Amerindians, detailing the historical and ongoing injustices that outsiders and present governments inflict on them. Using primarily Western sources who are sympathetic to the indigenous peoples, the author deftly engages the reader in exploring the incursions that have had devastating consequences on the rainforest and its people. The book is divided into seven chapters that discuss the cultures of the Amerindians, religions, and the history of modern-day government, economies, and surviving people groups. Sharp does not leave the reader without hope for these people; she shows how some are learning to assimilate into the economy of their region and yet maintain their ancestral character and lifestyles, and some are even able to maintain their ancestral homes. The language of the text is challenging but interesting, and liberal use of black and white photographs and sidebars adds to the readability. 2004, Lucent Books, $28.70. Ages 9 to 12. Reviewer: Diane Carver Sekeres (Children's Literature). ISBN: 1-5901-8313-4 The Arkansas River Tom Jackson    The Arkansas River is one of the few geographic locations in the United States that owes its pronunciation to court action. In 1881 the issue of how "Arkansas" was to be pronounced was litigated. In the end the pronunciation used to describe the state of "Arkansas" as opposed to that of "Kansas" was determined to be appropriate for this river way. This seemingly arcane but yet interesting fact is one of many regarding the Arkansas River that readers will encounter in The Arkansas River. This well-written and illustrated book includes a wealth of information about one of the longest and least well known rivers in the United States. As Jackson points out in this volume of the "Rivers of North America" series, the Arkansas River passes through some of the richest farmland in the world. This is a river that has helped to shape the lives of the generations of people who have lived along or near its banks. Further, the Arkansas River is habitat for a wealth of plant and animal life. The story of this river, its people, the life forms that live in and near it, as well as the historical events that occurred in this region are all touched upon in this excellent work. This book is a fine study of a river and its surrounding region and will be a valuable resource to students of geography. 2004, Gareth Stevens Publishing, $23.93. Ages 9 to 14. Reviewer: Greg M. Romaneck (Children's Literature). ISBN: 0-836-83752-5 Aswan High Dam Peggy J. Parks    Egypt's Aswan High Dam, which regulates the waters of the Nile River, is the world's largest rock-fill dam. Around 1900, the first Aswan dam was build. The size of the dam was increased in 1912 and again in 1933. Since the dam still did not store enough water, a new construction, the Aswan High Dam was begun in 1960 with financing from the Soviet Union. Because the 2000 square mile reservoir of the dam would, also, flood part of Sudan called Nubia, more than one hundred thousand people had to be relocated. Millions of cubic yards of rock, sand and clay were used to complete this huge structure over two miles wide. Its reservoir, Lake Nasser, was named after Egypt's president at the time who worked so hard to see the dam become a reality. The dam, now, produces much of Egypt's electricity. The dam solved the nation's flooding and drought problems while producing more usable cropland, but it created problems due to lack of silt in the waters of the Nile below the dam. This book is an excellent resource for any world studies class. A list of other resource books and websites is listed in the back of the book. It is part of the "Building World Landmarks" series. 2004, Blackbirch Press/The Gale Group/Thomson Learning, $26.20. Ages 7 to 14. Reviewer: Sally Niezgoda (Children's Literature). ISBN: 1-5671-1329-X Beavers and Their Lodges Martha E.H. Rustad    The next time you see a large pile of leaves and branches next to a lake or river, you better look twice. Beavers often work for days using tree branches, plants, and mud to make their lodge near the water. In a total of 121 words, this book describes how a beaver builds and uses their lodge. The full-page photographs allow the reader an up-close inspection of the beaver as it busily works. The simple table of contents lists three chapters, the glossary, index/word list, and list of sources for further information. This book will undoubtedly capture and hook early readers who will be attracted by the fascinating photographs. Adults will appreciate the content of this book as it addresses national science standards connected to life science. It will surely supplement any primary level curriculum related to animal habitats. It is part of the "Animal Homes" series. 2005, Capstone Press, $18.60. Ages 5 to 7. Reviewer: Denise Daley (Children's Literature). ISBN: 0-736-82582-7 Big Day on the River Sarah Wilson Illustrated by Randy Cecil    It's a beautiful day as the excited Willie prepares to go rafting on the Wallawatchee River on her own. But one after another, well-meaning relatives come to bring her what they think she will need for the journey, until the raft is so laden with food, blanket, a bike and more that when Cousin Clyde gets her started, the whole thing sinks. Everything is rescued, however. Finally prepared with what she really needs, hugs, kisses and best wishes, Willie gets going "at last." This simply, folks-y tale finds an equal visual innocence in Cecil's acrylic gouache illustrations. His kindly folks with large heads, button eyes and pipe-cleaner arms provide the warm, gentle humor to float the story. The artist often arranges them in theatrical groupings to multiply their comic interrelationships. Our heroine is a competent gal, well able to manage her long-awaited voyage. 2003, Henry Holt and Company, $16.95. Ages 4 to 7. Reviewers: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz (Children's Literature).    At dawn, Willie dances to the river anxious to try out her new raft on the Wallawatchie. One by one her loving relatives arrive with various gifts. Gramma Clemmie delivers a large bag of apples while exclaiming, "It's a long-toed river out there. You'll be as hungry as a hound by midmorning!" Gramma Em brings a huge watermelon "heavier than a full-grown raccoon in a washtub." By the time the rocking chair, baked beans, bicycle, camp stove, picnic basket, lemonade, hot chocolate, and sock umbrella arrive, it just takes the cannonball leap of bouncing Cousin Clyde to sink the whole durn thing. Hillarious relative action ensues and the story floats to a satisfying conclusion. Wonderful illustrations, full of color and motion follow the rollicking adventure. Delightful expressions and catchy dialogue are bound to make Wilson's book a well-loved favorite. 2003, Henry Holt and Company, $16.95. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Laura Hummel (Children's Literature). Best Books: Best Children's Books of the Year, 2004; Bank Street College of Education; United States Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, Supplement, 2005; H. W. Wilson; United States School Library Journal Book Review Stars, April 2003; Cahners; United States ISBN: 0-8050-6787-6 Boats on the River Peter Mandel Illustrated by Edward Miller    In this companion book to Planes at the Airport, young readers learn about the variety of ships and boats that ply oceans, lakes and rivers. On the river there are long low boats (barges), circle-slow boats on the lakes (sail boats), showboats (paddle wheelers) and in the ocean go-below boats (submarines). My quibble with this book is that the author does not use the proper names for the boats and calling an icebreaker a slice--snow boat makes little sense. Kids who can pronounce the multi-syllabic names of dinosaurs will have no trouble with the proper names of boats. It is almost as if the author feels it is necessary to dumb down the text. 2004 (orig. 2002), Scholastic, $6.99. Ages 1 to 3. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot (Children's Literature). ISBN: 0-439-56415-8 The Colorado River Daniel Gilpin    The Colorado River was once the wildest river in the United States. Now, due to a harnessing of the power of this mighty river via a series of dams, the Colorado no longer even has sufficient water to flow into the Gulf of Mexico. While amazing rapids remain in places such as the Grand Canyon, much of this once swift flowing waterway is tamed and put to commercial use. The tale of the Colorado River is presented in this edition of the twelve volume "Rivers of North America" series. Author Daniel Gilpin provides readers with a glimpse of the history and importance of this historic river. As Gilpin points out the Colorado River continues to be a vital source of water for human consumption as well as agriculture. Irrigation from the Colorado River has helped turn desert areas into rich agricultural bastions. In a part of the United States where water is scarce the Colorado River is a godsend to local residents. Additionally, the Colorado River is responsible for cutting out one of the most amazing natural wonders in the United States in the form of the Grand Canyon. Readers who take the time to read this book will come away with a better understanding of the Colorado River as well as the regions through which it travels. As is the case with other books in this series this is a work that will provide both sound information and an interesting presentation to its readers. 2004, Gareth Stevens Publishing, $23.93. Ages 9 to 14. Reviewer: Greg M. Romaneck (Children's Literature). ISBN: 0-836-83753-3 Danube: Cyanide Spill Nichol Bryan    In January 2000, a flooded gold mine in Romaine spilled 118 tons of cyanide into the Tisza River which reached the Danube river, the second longest European river running through eight nations. Waterways were polluted and thousands of fish and animals died. Eventually, the river Tisza was restocked with fish, but the spilled cyanide was considered Europe's worst disaster since the nuclear reactor explosion in Chernobyl. In this book, Bryan examines the causes of the spill, why cyanide is used in mining, the damages to the environment from cyanide poisoning, protective measures, and recovery time. Some nations such as a Turkey placed a ban on cyanide mining, but other countries searched for new leaching processes and are still using cyanide in mining. A positive step was taken to control pollution when the European Union, designed to help regulate international commerce, pledged to help clean up the mess and took measures to prevent another accident. Still, as Bryan points out, a balance is needed between job opportunities and safe environmental practices. Colorful pictures, informative sidebars, a time line, word glossary, and further information is included. 2004, World Almanac Library, $29.26. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Della A. Yannuzzi (Children's Literature). Best Books: Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, Supplement, 2005; H. W. Wilson; United States Middle and Junior High School Library Catalog, Ninth Edition, 2005; H.W. Wilson; United States ISBN: 0-836-85505-1 ISBN: 0-836-85512-4 Delaware Kelly Bennett Consultant, Nanci R. Vargus    The simple print and bright colorful photographs of this "Rookie Read-About" geography book will engage young readers immediately when they pick up this small, hard-bound book about the state of Delaware. Readers will find interesting information about the state of Delaware including details about the basic geography, activities of the people, and facts about native plants and animals. All of the wonderful photographs are a perfect complement to the text and they will appeal to young readers, such as a photograph of the boardwalk at Rehoboth Beach and a photograph of huge cargo ships on the Delaware River. This text is a wonderful introduction to nonfiction. It contains many important text features such as a glossary, an index, captioned photographs and maps, and word pronunciations for unfamiliar vocabulary in parenthesis following selected words. This excellent and informative title will be enjoyed by children in or out of the classroom and it will be a welcome addition to any classroom library or social studies curriculum, particularly if purchased as part of the "Rookie Read-About" geography series. 2004, Children's Press, $19.50. Ages 3 to 8. Reviewer: Susan Borges (Children's Literature). ISBN: 0-516-22752-1 Exploring the St. Lawrence River region Rose Blue and Corinne J. Naden    If the Spanish and Portuguese are credited with discovering and colonizing the South American continent and Mexico, then the French are certainly responsible for the mapping and colonization of the St. Lawrence region. Beginning in 1534 with Jacques Cartier, the French sent explorers and settlers to the region to hold the area secure for France. Until the French surrendered to the British in 1760, at the end of the French and Indian war, the French were the main drive in the settlement of what would become Eastern Canada. Unlike the exploration conducted by the Spanish and Portuguese in the southwest, the French exploration in North America was one truly committed to exploration and settlement of the area. The French never set out to conquer the native people in the St. Lawrence River region; their goal was first to find a passage to the east and later to establish posts and settlements in the area. Beginning with Cartier and ending with James Cook, the authors provide brief biographies of several explorers who were responsible for the exploration and creation of settlements in and around the region. Full color photos of the area and reproductions of images of the explorers appear throughout, as well as full-color maps of the regions explored. Words in bold throughout the text are defined in the glossary at the back; also included are an index, additional sources to consult, and a timeline of important dates in the region. Part of the "Exploring the Americas" series. 2004, Raintree, $28.56. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Danielle Williams (Children's Literature). ISBN: 0-739-84955-7 A Girl Named Disaster Nancy Farmer    This story of the physical and spiritual journey of a young Shona girl will keep readers enthralled until the very last page. Nhamo is faced with an impending marriage to a horrible man who already has a few wives. She decides, with the encouragement of her grandmother, to escape to her father's family in Zimbabwe. It is a trip that should have taken days, but it ends up taking a year. That Nhamo survives and eventually finds a better life for herself is a testament to her courage and character. It is a truly fascinating saga and deserved to be a Newbery Honor book. 1996, Orchard, $19.95. Ages 12 up. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot (Children's Literature). Best Books: Adventuring with Books: A Booklist for Pre-K--Grade 6, 12th Edition, 1999; National Council of Teachers of English; United States Best Books for Young Adults, 1997; American Library Association-YALSA; United States Best Books for Young Adults, 1997 Top Ten; American Library Association-YALSA; United States Best of the Best Revisited (100 Best Books for Teens), 2001; American Library Association-YALSA; United States Books in the Middle: Outstanding Books, 1996; Voice of Youth Advocates; United States Capitol Choices, 1996; The Capitol Choices Committee; United States The Children's Literature Choice List, 1997; Children's Literature; United States Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001; H.W. Wilson; United States Fanfare Honor List, 1996; Horn Book; United States Kaleidoscope, A Multicultural Booklist for Grades K-8, Third Edition, 2001; National Council of Teachers of English; United States Kirkus Book Review Stars, 1996; United States Middle And Junior High School Library Catalog, Eighth Edition, 2000; H.W. Wilson; United States Middle and Junior High School Library Catalog, Ninth Edition, 2005; H.W. Wilson; United States Not Just for Children Anymore!, 1999; Children's Book Council; United States Not Just for Children Anymore!, 2000; Children's Book Council; United States Notable Books for Children, 1997; American Library Association-ALSC; United States Notable Books for Children, 1996; American Library Association-ALSC; United States Publishers Weekly Book Review Stars, October 1996; Cahners; United States Publishers Weekly Best Children's Books, 1996; Cahners; United States Publishers Weekly, The Cuffies: Children's Booksellers Choose Their Favorite (and not-so-favorite) Books of the Year, 1996; Cahners; United States Recommended Literature: Kindergarten through Grade Twelve, 2002; California Department of Education; California School Library Journal Book Review Stars, October 1996; Cahners; United States School Library Journal: Best Books, 1997; Cahners; United States School Library Journal: Best Books for Young Adults, 1996; Cahners; United States Awards, Honors, Prizes: Bay Area Book Reviewers Association Awards Winner 1997 United States John Newbery Medal Honor Book 1997 United States State and Provincial Reading Lists: Georgia Children's Literature Awards, 2000; Nominee; Grades 4-8; Georgia Kentucky Bluegrass Award, 1999; Nominee; Kentucky Maine Student Book Award, 1997-1998; Nominee; Maine ISBN: 0-531-09539-8 ISBN: 0-531-08889-8 Give Her the River: A Father's Wish for His Daughter Michael Dennis Browne Paintings by Wendell Minor    The poem is set against beautiful illustrations of a river as it flows through a bucolic countryside. Through his words, the father wishes all the wonders of the world for his daughter and these thoughts are expressed in his comments about the river. It opens at dawn, which is also a parallel for the dawn of his daughter's life, with beautiful swans gliding down the smooth water. The same wish would be for her life to be smooth and filled with the delight each new day brings. As the seasons change so does the life of his daughter. We see the growth of blue wildflowers and the fully sprouted oak leaves in late spring and early summer. During the hot days of summer, father and daughter relax and enjoy reading and just spending time together. In the fall, the fiery orange leaves are a startling background for the image of a black Scottish terrier. That glowing autumn is followed by the frozen, snow covered ground, but a river that is still flowing. The year begins again and so does this child grow older. The father warm wishes are to share the last light of the evening and celebrate the arrival of baby ducks (new life) on this ever moving, ever flowing river of life. Wendell Minor brings all of the seasons and the delight that this young girl and her father take from their life together, which is metaphorically symbolized by the river. While it is a picture book for younger children, older girls and women will recognize the message. Some men (dads) are unable to express their real feelings in words, and this book may be a perfect way for them to show how much they really do care about their daughters. 2004, Atheneum, $15.95. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot (Children's Literature). ISBN: 0-689-84326-7 The Hudson: a Story of a River Robert Baron & Thomas Locker    The river's story is told as if by Storm King Mountain, which overlooks its flow from northern New York State to the Atlantic Ocean. Native Americans moved up the river valley ten thousand years ago, living in harmony with nature. Henry Hudson sailed his ship up the river four hundred years ago, as European settlers began to arrive. Revolution brought a new republic. "The mountain and the river saw it all," is the repeated refrain, as is "We are all part of nature and nature is part of us." The story continues with the painters and writers inspired by the river as well as the commercial interests seeking to destroy the very sources of their inspiration. The efforts of groups supporting environmental concerns lead to the current improvements around the river, with hopes that we can "praise the glory of creation and work to preserve it for future generations." Locker's full-page naturalistic oil paintings tell the visual history from a hilltop perspective, with no close-ups. He uses color to convey emotions, with red skies evoking troubled times and blue to enhance the more hopeful aspects of the river's future. The book is like an art exhibition with elaborate labels, along with an environmental message strongly stated by the author. An extensive bibliography is included. 2004, Fulcrum Publishing, $17.95. Ages 6 to 10. Reviewers: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz (Children's Literature). ISBN: 1-5559-1512-4 The Hudson River Ian Wood    One need only think about the writings of Washington Irving to conjure up images that include the historic Hudson River. Originally settled by Native peoples such as the Mohawks and Mohicans the area surrounding the Hudson River was once a Dutch colony. Ultimately, the British prevailed after a series of colonial wars and the Hudson River became a part of the vast British Empire. Throughout its history the Hudson River has been of great importance to the commercial and agricultural development of this portion of New York State. For over 300 miles the Hudson flows through forested areas as well as towns and farmland. In the end, the Hudson courses through New York City before emptying into the Atlantic Ocean. Once one of the most pristine rivers in America the Hudson was so polluted by industrialists that its water was thoroughly soiled. In recent years, concerted efforts to control pollution has helped restore much of the Hudson but pollutants such as PCP continue to make fish taken from the river unfit for safe consumption. Ian Wood provides these, and many other, facts concerning New York's Hudson River in this illustrated chapter in the "Rivers of North America" series. In this well written study in regional geography Ian Wood combines a sound writer's touch with ample illustrations to create a fine introduction to the Hudson River. Young readers will come away from Mr. Wood's book with a good entry point of knowledge concerning a major eastern riverway. 2004, Gareth Stevens Publishing, $23.93. Ages 9 to 14. Reviewer: Greg M. Romaneck (Children's Literature). ISBN: 0-836-83755-X Living Near a River Joanne Winne    Aimed at emergent readers, this entry in the "Communities" series is part of a broader collection of books entitled Welcome Books. The objective is to welcome new readers and in particular to provide factual information in an interesting format. This book describes the lives of children who live near various rivers around the world--the Nile, the Amazon, and the Colorado. Full-page, full-color photographs appear on the right hand page with a simple two or three sentence text on the left. Young readers will understand that rivers are found in many places in the world and are home to a variety of people and cultures. Bolded words are defined in a section entitled "New Words," and it should be noted that the definitions are specific to the text, alternate definitions are not presented. There is a page that lists books and web sites to help kids find out more (note that no dates are given for the books cited). There is an index and a brief mention of the author and the consultants on the final page, and there is an opening table of contents page. 2000, Grolier, $13.50 and $4.95. Ages 4 to 7. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot (Children's Literature). ISBN: 0-516-23302-5 ISBN: 0-516-23502-8 The Mackenzie River Tim Harris    One of the most secluded of the great rivers of North America, the Mackenzie takes its name from the 18th century British explorer Alexander Mackenzie. Starting at Great Slave Lake in Canada's Northwest Territory the Mackenzie heads north toward the Arctic Ocean. There, 1,000 miles later, the Mackenzie River empties into the cold waters of the north. Very few people reside along this river, as the Mackenzie traverses some of the most isolated and rugged terrain on the continent. The Mackenzie freezes for approximately half the year and is home to a vast amount of wildlife. Very few people visit its more remote sections, as this is truly a wilderness river. The Mackenzie's story is the subject of this book in the illustrated "Rivers of North America" series. Writer Tim Harris presents the background and nature of the Mackenzie River and its human and non-human residents in a sound way. The author of this fine book combines a readable narrative with copious illustrations and fascinating anecdotes. Readers should take the time to read the sidebar portions of the text as they contain some of the more interesting stories of this remote river. All in all, this is a very interesting work and one that deals with a subject that will probably be quite novel to many readers. 2004, Gareth Stevens Publishing, $23.93. Ages 9 to 14. Reviewer: Greg M. Romaneck (Children's Literature). Best Books: Middle and Junior High School Library Catalog, Ninth Edition, 2005; H.W. Wilson; United States ISBN: 0-836-83756-8 The Mighty Mississippi: The Life and Times of America's Greatest River Linda Viera Illustrated by Higgins Bond    This splendidly-organized book traces the "life and times of America's greatest river," from its glacial beginnings and its twisted 2,350-mile journey through North America to the Gulf of Mexico. Maps, super-realistic acrylic paintings, and an intriguing, cumulative timeline illustrate each spread. In lively prose, the author describes changes in both the geology of the river and its human history over time. She includes dramatic details, such as a description of the 1811 earthquakes in Missouri that rang church bells in faraway cities and sent more than 2000 seismic waves through the area for months--part of the Mississippi ran backward for hours--and the February, 1846 crossing of the frozen river by 70,000 Mormons searching for a safe haven. The only thing that gave me pause is that she describes the work of the Army Corps of Engineers uncritically, leaving out any description of the negative impacts of human "management" of this great river. 2005, Walker Publishing Co, $16.95. Ages 9 to 12. Reviewer: Deborah Churchman (Children's Literature). ISBN: 0-8027-8943-9 ISBN: 0-8027-8944-7 Mississippi Ann Heinrichs    Mississippi has produced several great writers including William Faulkner, Eudora Welty, and Richard Wright. And, according to this installment of the "This Land is Your Land" series, the deep south state has produced lots more. The book is organized into easy to use sections. One section features two maps; one shows state details and another shows where the state is situated within the U.S. Another brief section describes the early Native Americans who first inhabited the region as well as the Spanish and British explorers who came later. Mississippi's state and local governments are also highlighted. A section about Mississippians at work tells of the common occupations among the residents, many of whom are farmers of cotton, chickens and catfish, while others work in the food industry or mining. The section entitled "Getting to Know Mississippians" describes festivals, writers, musicians, and stars like Oprah Winfrey and Elvis Presley. A section on exploring Mississippi encourages young travelers to visit a variety of places, including famous Civil War sites and the Muppet collection in Jim Henson's hometown. The back of the book provides a glossary, interesting facts, state symbols, recipes, the state song, brief biographies of famous Mississippians, and a list of books, websites and addresses for more information. This is a must have for any school library. 2004, Compass Point Books, $22.60. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Marcie Flinchum Atkins (Children's Literature). ISBN: 0-756-50355-8 The Missouri River Leon Gray    The Missouri River takes the prize as the longest river in North America. For 2,315 miles the Missouri flows across the Great Plains before emptying into the Mississippi River at St. Louis. At one time the Missouri River was so prone to flooding and erosion that it was nicknamed the "Big Muddy." Now, due to a series of dams, the Missouri has been tamed and such floods do not regularly occur but environmental effects have been mixed. The story, history, environment, and use of the Missouri River are the fodder out of which Gray has crafted this illustrated work. As part of the multi-volume "Rivers of North America" series Gray's study of the Missouri River follows a general format. As in other books in this informative geography series, Gray traces the early history of the Missouri River region. He places a particular focus on the Native American people who resided along the river prior to the time of westward expansion and settlement of the 19th century. Gray also notes the contact explorers Lewis and Clark had with the Missouri River. Beyond regional history, Gray touches upon the environmental concerns linked to the damming of the Missouri River. Additionally, the author does a good job of detailing some of the economic developments that have been spurred on by the river. Thus, by bringing a great deal of information together in a concise manner Leon Gray has provided readers with a capable introduction to the topic at hand. 2004, Gareth Stevens Publishing, $23.93. Ages 9 to 14. Reviewer: Greg M. Romaneck (Children's Literature). ISBN: 0-836-83758-4 Monday on the Mississippi Marilyn Singer Illustrated by Frané Lessac    A map of the Mississippi River and all the states it flows through is on the title page, while the relevant part of the map is repeated on each of the double pages that focuses on that particular stretch of river. In brief sentences rich with images, each day of a week's cruise from Lake Itasca to the sea is described on two double pages. A little girl can wade in the stream at the beginning on Monday; then barges are pushed past St. Paul. On Tuesday we move from Wyalusing State Park in Wisconsin to the levee in Dubuque, Iowa. Wednesday we go past Hannibal--Tom Sawyer country--to St. Louis, Missouri. And so the river flows, joined by the Ohio, on through the week to Mississippi and Louisiana on Sunday. Lessac does more than illustrate the text. Her detailed paintings in brightly colored folk-art style add extra images of agriculture, river traffic, boats, horses, recreation, etc. Her charming imagery personalizes the adventure by creating diverse characters easy to relate to as well. There are two pages of history and added background information. 2005, Henry Holt and Company, $16.95. Ages 5 to 9. Reviewers: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz (Children's Literature).    Board a steamboat with poet Marilyn Singer and glide for a week down a mighty river. Through long, rolling lines, the fourteen verses of Monday on the Mississippi introduce various stops along the way--the river mouth at Lake Itasca, Minnesota, Tom Sawyer's hometown of Hannibal, Missouri, Mud Island in Memphis, Tennessee, the Louisiana Delta. Frane Lessac's folk art paintings impart a timeless quality to life along the river, with New Orleans beignets, Kentucky canoes and St. Paul barges. Singer's steamboat ride may well encourage a poetic splash. Young readers may wish to create their own poems about the bodies of water--puddle, lake, sea--in their lives. 2005, Henry Holt, $16.95. Ages 5 to 9. Reviewer: Mary Quattlebaum (Children's Literature). ISBN: 978-08050-7208-2 ISBN: 0-8050-7208-X The Ohio River Tom Jackson    Starting in downtown Pittsburgh and ending with a merger with the Mississippi River near Cairo, Illinois the Ohio River is one of the largest in the United States. For nearly one thousand miles the Ohio River flows through areas that house nearly 10% of the nation's population. Home to wildlife that includes white-tailed deer, mink, herons, raccoons, and a wide array of other life forms the Ohio River has also been dogged by industrial pollution. At this time the Ohio River remains a vital part of the region's and the nation's economy. Barges holding vast amounts of coal and grain traverse the river and via the Mississippi confluence can travel all the way to the Gulf of Mexico and beyond. Jackson's illustrated book is part of the twelve-book "Rivers of North America" series. Following the format that typifies this informative geographic series the author touches upon the river's pathway, its history, environmental concerns, and the commercial role that the Ohio River plays in the modern world. Through this model the author is able to compress a great deal of information into two dozen pages of text. Through the combination of numerous illustrations, a listing of "points of interest" along the river, and interesting sidebars the author augments his text in a meaningful way. Thus, The Ohio River is a worthwhile book for youngsters studying this region or who have an interest in geography in general. 2004, Gareth Stevens Publishing, $23.93. Ages 9 to 14. Reviewer: Greg M. Romaneck (Children's Literature). ISBN: 0-836-83759-2 The Raft Jim LaMarche    Nicky is far from enthusiastic about being dropped off in the north woods to spend the summer with his grandmother. But grandma is an artist and free thinker. She gives the quiet boy lots of space and maybe even a very special gift. When an old raft bumps up next to Nicky along the river one day, he begins to explore its possibilities. Along the way, he finds a love for the river, for nature and art, and for his grandmother, too. All summers should pass this way. LaMarche's story and lovely pictures are based on his own childhood experiences. He tells and illustrates his tale gently and with much affection. This is a keeper. 2000, HarperCollins, $15.95. Ages 4 to 7. Reviewer: Kathleen Karr (Children's Literature).    When I first read this book, it touched me in a way I never imagined. I mourned for the kids who have spent endless nights in front of the television and have never ventured outdoors. They have never experienced the beauty of nature. I was hooked from the very beginning, when reading a note from the author: "This story is like the cigar box I kept as a boy--it is full of bits and pieces of my boyhood summers." And indeed it is. Young Nicky is indignant because he has to spend the summer with his unusual grandmother out in the country. This is a woman who does not even own a TV. Things get off to a rocky start when grandmother offers him cornbread, something he does not like. And the living room is not for sitting; it is a river rat's workroom, full of books, sketches, and a half-finished carving of a bear. But, grandmother proves to be a wise woman and keeps him busy by sending him down to the river to fish for blue gills. It is there he discovers a raft floating on the river by itself. And drawn on the raft, are a bear, a fox, and a raccoon. Who had drawn them, he wonders, and where had the raft come from? From then on, his days are filled with adventures aboard the mysterious raft, as he discovers the river in a brand new way. Through Nicky's eyes we behold how creatures big and small dwell in a river habitat. The author is also the illustrator, showcasing his incredible talent through the wonderful details he observed while on the journey. 2002 (orig. 1999), HarperTrophy/HarperCollins, $6.99. Ages 6 up. Reviewer: Robyn Gioia (Children's Literature). Best Books: Adventuring with Books: A Booklist for Pre-K-Grade 6 13th Edition, 2002; National Council of Teachers of English; United States The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2001; Bank Street College of Education; United States Books to Read Aloud to Children of All Ages, 2003; Bank Street College of Education; United States Capitol Choices, 2000; The Capitol Choices Committee; United States Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001; H.W. Wilson; United States Kirkus Book Review Stars, April 15, 2000; United States Notable Children's Books in the Language Arts, 2001; National Council of Teachers of English; United States Outstanding Books by Wisconsin Authors and Illustrators, 2001; United States Publishers Weekly Book Review Stars, April 2000; Cahners; United States School Library Journal Book Review Stars, May 2000; Cahners; United States School Library Journal: Best Books, 2000; Cahners; United States Teachers' Choices, 2001; International Reading Association; United States Awards, Honors, Prizes: Irma S. and James H. Black Award for Excellence in Children's Literature Winner 2000 United States State and Provincial Reading Lists: Georgia Children's Literature Awards, 2003; Nominee; Grades K-4; Georgia Monarch Award, 2005; Nominee; K-3; Illinois Texas Bluebonnet Award, 2003; Nominee; Texas Washington Children's Choice Picture Book Award, 2002; Nominee; Washington Young Hoosier Book Award, 2003; Nominee; Picture Book (Grades K-3); Indiana ISBN: 0-688-13977-9 ISBN: 0-688-13978-7 River Life James L. Castner    The Amazon River contains an estimated 3,000 species of freshwater fish. This total represents a population twelve times as large as that of the Mississippi River. Among those watery denizens are catfish that weigh over 200 pounds, sharp-toothed piranhas and electric eels. Along the shores of the Amazon live thousands of other life forms, including a multitude of trees, elegant tropical plants, large and small mammals, and countless insects. River life in and along the Amazon River represents one of the riches treasuries of living beings on the face of the earth. This bounteous reservoir of life is also a habitat for human beings--the men, women and children who live along the Amazon. The various webs of life that encompass the Amazon River Basin are the subject matter of this volume in James L. Castner's six volume "Deep in the Amazon" series. Castner offers readers a glimpse at river life starting with the Amazonian flood plains and extending into the depths of the river way. As in earlier volumes in this illustrated nature series, the author does a proficient job of describing the complicated and interconnected Amazon Basin ecosystem. This is a well crafted book and one that will inform and entertain readers young and old. 2002, Benchmark Books, $24.21. Ages 10 to 14. Reviewer: Greg M. Romaneck (Children's Literature). Best Books: Middle and Junior High School Library Catalog, Ninth Edition, 2005; H.W. Wilson; United States Middle and Junior High School Library Catalog, Supplement to the Eighth Edition, 2002; H.W. Wilson; United States ISBN: 0-7614-1127-5 Rivers Nicola Edwards    Young students are given rudimentary information about the formation, flow and shape of rivers, in a clear and concise manner making what might be a complex subject more accessible. Illustrations and charts are supplemented by bright and interesting photographs. The student will learn that rivers often provide drinking water, irrigation for crops, environments for many species and areas for recreation. A simple explanation along with illustrations shows how a hydroelectric power station uses the movement of water to generate electricity. The chapter headed "A River's Journey" details the path of a river from the source to the sea and readers will become familiar with terms such as "tributary" and "meander." The use of such words, along with the corresponding illustrations, does a great job of introducing the correct terms to youngsters. Of course, the book also contains a glossary, along with a list of facts about rivers and suggestions for further research. This book is part of the "Geography First" series. 2004, Blackbirch Press/Thomson Gale, $22.45. Ages 6 to 8. Reviewer: Carolyn Mott Ford (Children's Literature). ISBN: 1-4103-0109-5 Rivers Joann Early Macken    This book is part of the series "Water Habitats." It makes a great supplement to the elementary school curriculum. The beautiful photographs provide close-up views of this water habitat. Children also learn about river banks and the animals that live there. The text is written at a second grade reading level, and the large font, stunning photographs, and the subject entice even a reluctant reader. In the "Note to Parents and Educators," Susan Nations, M.Ed., an author, literacy coach, and a consultant in literacy development, explains how the series is designed to help children learn about the animals and plants that live in and around water. She also explains how the books can be used in classroom reading groups. There is a short glossary explaining seven of the water habitat words that are used most often in the book. The "For More Information" page lists books and web sites the reader can use to continue to study this topic. Other books in this series include: Beaches, Coral Reefs, Lakes Ocean Floors, and Wetlands. They are available in English as well as in a bilingual English/Spanish version. 2006, Weekly Reader Early Learning Library, Ages 4 to 8, $19.33. Reviewer: Liz Rice ISBN: 0-8368-4886-1 ISBN: 0-8368-4893-4 Rivers/Rios Joann Early Macken    This book is very useful in a bilingual classroom because each page of the text is written in both English and Spanish. The book is part of the series "Water Habitats." It makes a great supplement to the elementary school science curriculum. The beautiful photographs provide close-up views of this water habitat. Children also learn about riverbanks and the animals that live there. The text is written at a second grade reading level, and the large font, stunning photographs, and the subject entice even a reluctant reader. In the "Note to Parents and Educators," Susan Nations, M.Ed., an author, literacy coach, and a consultant in literacy development, explains how the series is designed to help children learn about the animals and plants that live in and around water. She also explains how the books can be used in classroom reading groups. There is a short glossary explaining seven of the water habitat words that are used most often in the book. The "For More Information" page lists books and web sites the reader can use to continue to study this topic. Other books in this series include: Beaches, Coral Reefs, Lakes Ocean Floors, and Wetlands. They are available in English as well as in a bilingual English/Spanish version. 2006, Weekly Reader Early Learning Library, Ages 4 to 8, $19.33. Reviewer: Liz Rice ISBN: 0-8368-6031-4 ISBN: 0-8368-6038-1 Robert Fulton: the Steamboat Man Carin T. Ford    In this biography, readers learn about the man credited with significantly improving the steamboat. The story begins with a brief overview of Robert Fulton's childhood and moves quickly to the events that shaped his future as an inventor and engineer. We learn that Robert was interested in more than just steamboats. He published a book on how to improve canals, designed a submarine that was able to stay underwater longer than the submarines of that time, and created an underwater bomb. The story culminates with Robert's invention of a steamboat with paddle wheels that was able to travel 150 miles up the Hudson River to Albany in less than a day and a half. No other steamboat at that time was able to travel that far, and even regular ships took more than twice the time to travel that distance. This book, part of the "Famous Inventors" series, has many interesting facts and anecdotes. It would make an excellent resource for elementary students learning about Robert Fulton or steamboats, and includes a timeline, glossary, and additional reading section at the end. 2004, Enslow Publishers, $17.95. Ages 7 to 10. Reviewer: Jennifer Chambliss (Children's Literature). Reviewer: 0-7660-2248-X The Snake River Daniel Gilpin    The Snake River winds its way for over one thousand miles through some of the wildest and most scenic land in the United States. Tracing its source to Yellowstone National Park the Snake River also includes some of the whitest water that can be found anywhere. The Snake has played a significant role in American history. For example, Lewis and Clark used the Snake River as a significant avenue during their epic journey to the Pacific Ocean. Nowadays, the Snake has been somewhat tamed by dams and human intervention. Yet, despite the hand of modern man, the Snake River remains an American gem. The story of the Snake River is capably presented in this illustrated volume of the "Rivers of North America" series. In this text, Gilpin offers readers information related to the nature, history, and wildlife of the Snake River region. In telling the story of this turbulent flowage Gilpin provides younger readers with useful information about a fascinating geographic locale. As such this is a worthwhile book for youngsters with an interest in the study of varied American landscapes. 2004, Gareth Stevens Publishers, $23.93. Ages 9 to 14. Reviewer: Greg M. Romaneck (Children's Literature). ISBN: 0-836-83761-4 The St. Lawrence River Tim Cooke    Four hundred years ago, the areas surrounding the wild St. Lawrence River were controlled by the Iroquois and Algonquin tribes. In those dense woodlands these Native people hunted, trapped, and fished in a wilderness area of great bounty. With the passage of time this region came under the control of first the French and then the British. Now, primarily as part of Canada, the St. Lawrence's 744-mile length remains a vital part of the economic and environmental heritage of that region. In The St. Lawrence River, readers will learn a great deal about the history, geography, and evolution of this important riverway. Even now many of Canada's most important urban areas rest along or near the banks of the St. Lawrence. In the United States commercial development along much of the Great Lakes is connected to the St. Lawrence River. One need only think of the huge iron boats and "lakers" that span nearly two football fields in length that traverse the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence Seaway carrying their cargoes to realize the importance of this river system. This is the story contained within the pages of this fine book in the twelve-volume illustrated "Rivers of North America" series. Author Tim Cooke has done an excellent job of detailing in a concise manner the history and importance of one of the most historic rivers in North America. 2004, Gareth Stevens Publishing, $23.93. Ages 9 to 14. Reviewer: Greg M. Romaneck (Children's Literature). ISBN: 0-836-83762-2 Ste-e-e-e-eamboat A-comin! Jill Esbaum Pictures by Adam Rex    Esbaum recreates the excitement evoked by the arrival of a steamboat in the quiet villages along the Mississippi River in the last half of the 1800s. Terse rhymed couplets, almost like song lyrics, aptly depict the sleeping dogs and store clerk coming alive at the ever-louder announcement that the boat is "a-comin'." The "floating palace" with the "fiery furnace" and "gleaming rails" docks, and both people and materials come ashore, all delightfully detailed in climactic sequences. Then the boat pulls away, and the village returns to sleep, while the river rolls on. Rex has chosen a naturalistic style for his detailed paintings, so the illustrations provide some historic references as they tell an elaborate tale. Several pages are montages of people in action with attractively-framed labels. The emotion of the action is clearly conveyed. The pages announcing the arrival of the boat visually shout their message. Set in a typeface seen in old circus posters with modified spelling, they invest the story with the boat's significance to the town. In her note, the author quotes from Mark Twain. A map showing the states through which the Mississippi flows decorates the end-papers, while the design of the title page is based on a steamboat pilot's certificate from 1852. 2005, Farrar Straus and Giroux, $16.00. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewers: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz (Children's Literature). Best Books: School Library Journal Book Review Stars, March 2005; Cahners; United States ISBN: 0-374-37236-5 The Tennessee River Steve Hawkes    The Tennessee River stretches from the foothills of the Smoky Mountains through four states until it empties into the Ohio River. Along its pathway the Tennessee River provides a source of commercial development that has enriched a portion of the United States that was once among the poorest sectors of the nation. In the 1930's as part of the economic recovery program put into place by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) was initiated. This project involved the building of a series of electrical generating plants as well as the deepening of certain sections of the Tennessee River. As a result of these efforts the TVA produced, and continues to produce, more electricity than any other Federally controlled entity. These facts, as well as a wealth of other interesting information, are contained in Hawkes' illustrated The Tennessee River. This well crafted and carefully written book is part of a broader series entitled "Rivers of North America." In this book, the author combines attention to the physical geography, regional wildlife, cultural diversity, and history of the area in and around the Tennessee River. In providing solid information in a readable manner, Hawkes does justice a beautiful section of America and the winding Tennessee River that sweeps through it. 2004, Gareth Stevens Publishing, $23.93. Ages 9 to 14. Reviewer: Greg M. Romaneck (Children's Literature). ISBN: 0-836-83763-0 The Yangtze River Nathan Olson    Whether readers think of the Yangtze as Chang Jiang, "the great river;" Jinsha Jiang, "the river of golden sand;" or simply as the third longest river in the world, this fact filled picture book reveals it is a fascinating body of water with significance to millions of people. Flowing at one point south, at another, north, and then, east, the great river crosses most of southern China and touches the lives of citizens in Nanjing, Shanghai, and even Beijing through the Grand Canal, as well as many small towns in between. The importance of river commerce can scarcely be overestimated, as this volume indicates. Reaching back into history, the relation between the body of water the formation of villages, and feudalism is explored. Lives of peasants who still survive much as farmers have for centuries is documented with large colorful photographs juxtaposed against views of modern cities populated by millions living in cities powered by hydroelectricity. Special features of this work include a glossary, recommended reading, internet sites, and directions on how to build a canal. This is the fourth volume in the "Fact Finders Land and Water" series. 2004, Capstone Press, $22.60. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Janice DeLong (Children's Literature). ISBN: 0-736-82485-5 To stay up to date on this topic, consider subscribing to The Children's Literature Comprehensive Database. For your free trial, click here. Added 5/16/06