America the Beautiful September 11 - Talked About and Understood Dealing with Grief and Loss The Different Faces of Islam The Greatest City Learning About Fire Rescue and Other Emergencies Reviews 50 American Heroes Every Kid Should Know Dennis Denenberg and Lorraine Roscoe    Some of the heroes featured in this excellent text are quite well known, such as Clara Barton, Abraham Lincoln and Martin Luther King Jr. Entries about more obscure heroes, such as Ida B. Wells and Elizabeth Blackwell, are sure to enlighten readers. The heroes represent and celebrate the diversity of this country; and so white, black, Asian, Native and Hispanic Americans are included. In addition, women and men from all periods of this nation's history are represented. Each hero is allotted two pages. Under each hero's name, dates of birth and death are listed, as is a brief caption summarizing his or her unique contribution. Additional books about each hero are listed. The easy-to-read text and black-and-white photos combine to make this a valuable resource for middle school children. 2001, The Millbrook Press, $29.09. Ages 8 up. Reviewer: Jeanne K. Pettenati. ISBN: 0-7613-1612-4 A is for the Americas Cynthia Chin-Lee and Terri de la Peña Illustrations by Enrique O. Sanchez    This book provides a nice learning experience for both children and adults. It is an alphabet book based on places, things and cultures throughout the Americas—not just the United States. Technically, the Americas region includes North, Central and South America as well as the Caribbean. Home to more than 35 countries and colonies, the region offers a lot of cultural tidbits that U.S.-centered families will enjoy. On each page, a different letter of the alphabet highlights some aspect of life in the Americas from "f" is for futbol, "s" is for salsa, and "u" is for uakari, a rare, endangered monkey in the Amazon rain forest. All the items highlighted include a brief, factual description accompanied by bright illustrations. The best thing about this book is that in an age of political correctness, it is not pedantic or stuffy but matter-of-fact. It makes raising cultural awareness fun and interesting instead of just another chore. 1999, Orchard Books, $15.95. Ages 5 to 9. Reviewer: Joni Lucas ISBN: 0-531-30194-X ISBN: 0-531-33194-6 Best Books: Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People, 2000; National Council for the Social Studies; United States Across America, I Love You Christine Loomis Illustrated by Kate Kiesler     A poetic tribute to America is framed within the loving and supportive metaphoric relationship between mother and child. The landscapes portrayed range from the Pacific forests and shores, past mountains, deserts, prairies, and the Mississippi, to the East Coast, and through autumn into winter. At each juncture the child is included, for "You are part of me and I am part of you." The oil painted scenes are somewhat idealized. They fill most of each double page spread with a portrait of America to admire, while a small illustration, usually including a child, is near the text, complete the loving picture. 2000, Hyperion Books for Children, $15.99. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz ISBN: 0-7868-2314-3 ISBN: 0-7868-0366-5 Best Books: Books About Relationships and Community-Building, 2002; Children's Book Council; United States America Is Louise Borden Illustrated by Stacey Schuett    This positive and patriotic kaleidoscope of the American people, their land and their beliefs is a surefire way to begin a discussion. Each two-page spread begins with the words that comprise the title of the book. The opening spread shows ships approaching the Statue of Liberty at sunrise and a text that begins, "America is our country./ It is the place we call home./ We are the nation/ whose name means freedom/ to people all over the world. Other subjects are the flag, the national holidays of Thanksgiving and the 4th of July, the city and country landscapes, Native Americans and immigrants, farm and city folk, historically important men and women, and means of communication that connect its people across the continent and beyond. The full pledge of allegiance and the words to the national anthem are included. Schuett creates visually interesting double page spreads. Her colorful map of the United States invites readers to take a long look. The varying perspectives keep each turn of the page fresh: Readers will look up to see skyscrapers, have a bird's eye view of the waterways, a panorama of the plains, as and a single-focus picture of a Minnesota cabin buried in snow. Classroom teachers can use this as an introduction to units on immigrants. Through its non rhyming poetry it presents a basic commonality for all Americans. 2002, Margaret K McElderry/ Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing, Ages 5 to 9, $16.95. Reviewer: Sharon Salluzzo ISBN: 0-689-83900-6 America: A Patriotic Primer Lynne Cheney Illustrated by Robin Preiss Glasser    Using the ABCs as a jump-start, Cheney and Glasser review with pride and enthusiasm what makes America unique among nations. The book opens with A for America and B for Birthday of the nation in a double-page spread celebration. Letters stand for ideas such as Equality, Freedom, Ideals, Patriotism, and Suffrage; artifacts such as the Constitution; people such as Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, Martin Luther King Jr, James Madison, Native Americans, and George Washington; and others such as X, which marks various key locations of historical events; and Q commemorating America's quest for "the new, the far, and the very best." In a wonderful and hopeful accolade to youth, Y is for You, "and all you will be in this greatest of countries, the land of the free" and is illustrated by trading-card-like images of children who are future art critics or test pilots and in various occupations-to-be. Cheney and Glasser work in a tremendous amount of information by decorative borders of names or quotes, multiple sidebars lavishly captioned, and a centered short paragraph balancing the letter. Each letter incorporates a modern American family, for instance, reading in bed on J for Jefferson's page, with Jefferson's well-known quote underlining the picture, "I cannot live without books." Thus readers are treated to numerous facts about Jefferson plus several quotes, a formula echoed on the facing page of K for King. The letter-vignette pictures a white child lifting up a younger brown child to have a drink at the fountain and the quote is "Let justice roll down like waters." Ronald Reagan is the only president of recent history to earn a spot in the text, with a quote. (Readers may want to check out Alice Provensen's well-designed The Buck Stops Here, published in 1990 to review presidents through Reagan). This carefully designed book invites readers of all ages to consider, in Cheney's words, "how blessed we are...to be part of a nation whose citizens enjoy liberty and opportunity such as have never been known before." There's a lot to learn here and Glasser's cheerful, cartoonish, black-line, colored pencil, and watercolor illustrations wear their research lightly but accurately. Endnotes on the text are extensive and include information about patriots, heroes, and aspects to further each letter's presentation. 2002, Simon & Schuster, $16.95. Ages 6 to 12. Reviewer: Susan Hepler ISBN: 0-689-85192-8 America: My Land, Your Land, Our Land W. Nikola-Lisa Illustrated by 14 outstanding American artists    Fourteen different American artists of various ethnic backgrounds illustrate Nikola-Lisa's very simple rhythmic text. Biographies and photos of the artists are included. This is a picture book primarily to be used for discussion of the multiplicity of the heritage of our country. The illustrations of broad concepts are done in every conceivable medium, and are uniformly lovely. 1997, Lee & Low, $15.95. Ages 2 to 6. Reviewer: Kathleen Karr ISBN: 1-880000-37-7 American Photographers: Capturing the Image Ann Graham Gaines    Number 32 in the "Collective Biographies" series, this volume covers the life stories of ten well-known photographers of the 19th and 20th centuries¾from Matthew Brady to Gordon Parks. The introductory essay traces the craft's history and uses, and then the reader is plunged into the adventurous careers of these illustrious men and women. Not only does the author offer clear chronological detail in each entry, but also a photo of the photographer and an artistic and telling image of his or her own work. Since a picture is worth a thousand words, those photos themselves are what ultimately enliven each tale of a celluloid soul. This was one of the first discoveries the photographers themselves made¾that people always learn truth from a photo's particulars much more quickly and thoroughly than from either the spoken or written word. That, in fact, was the real reason these men and women picked up a camera in the first place, and their own picture-words, gathered in this book, will stir those who read it to do the same. Gaines has given her readers a diverse and fascinating group, whose vision has opened the world's eyes to beauty and to injustice. It will definitely be an eye-opener for the young people who find it in the biography section of their local public or school library, where it will be one of the few compendiums of shutterbug heroes. 2002, Enslow Publishers, Ages 8 up, $20.95. Reviewer: Earlene Viano ISBN: 0-7660-1833-4 The Bald Eagle Returns Dorothy Hinshaw Patent Photographs by William Muñoz    Patent and Munoz have once again teamed up to bring kids a fascinating and uplifting story. It is a sequel to their book, Where the Bald Eagles Gather, which reported that the bald eagle was endangered and threatened with extinction. Thanks to the Endangered Species Act, this majestic bird, emblematic of America, is no longer near extinction. Magnificent photographs show the bald eagle during all stages of its life. Readers learn that eagle nests can weigh up to 4000 pounds and are reused. Bald eagles needs a pound of food a day to stay healthy and they mate for life. But this book is not just filled with facts—it is a well-written account of the birds' comeback and a warning for us not to be complacent. Dangers still abound, with humans destroying bald eagle habitats. 2000, Clarion, $15.00. Ages 8 up. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot ISBN: 0-395-91416-7 Best Books: The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2001; Bank Street College of Education; United States Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, Supplement, 2002; H.W. Wilson; United States Middle And Junior High School Library Catalog, Supplement to the Eighth Edition, 2001; H.W. Wilson; United States School Library Journal Book Review Stars, November 2000; Cahners; United States Brain Quest: America Lynn St. Claire with Joni Miller Illustrations by Kimble Mead    Do you think you know a lot about America, its history, geography, literature and music, and many other bits and pieces of information? These 850 questions will test that knowledge and in addition to providing the answers, offer information to clarify and explain all the options you could choose as answers. There are suggestions for ways to play and ways to keep score. The deck can be used at home or in school. It is a great way to reinforce what has been learned or to pick up new facts. I played for a while and was feeling pretty smug, then I hit a few questions that gave me pause and half the time I picked the wrong answer. Every time I got a genius question right, I really felt good. It is tempting to keep the deck here on my desk and try a few cards each day-it is almost like eating potato chips, you can't eat just one. I trust kids with an appetite for information will feel the same way. 2002, Workman, Ages 9 up, $10.95. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot ISBN: 0-7611-2783-6 Celebrate America in Poetry and Art Edited by Nora Panzer    Panzer succeeds with a truly successful marriage of artists and poets, all of whom have created their own views of America. The five sections, accompanied by full-color reproductions from the National Museum of American Art, look at the beauty of the American landscape, cultural influences, patriotism, dissension, and the lighter side of life. More than one hundred artists' and writers' works are represented. Brief biographical notes, lists of illustrations and an index round out this glorification of America. 1994, Hyperion, $18.95, $18.89 and $9.99. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot Celebrate America in Poetry and Art Edited by Nora Panzer    This exquisite collection contains more than fifty works by America's finest poets from the past and present—Maya Angelou, Robert Frost, Nikki Giovanni, Langston Hughes, Eve Merriam, and Walt Whitman. Alongside these intriguing poems, Panzer has placed paintings, sculptures, and photographs from the National Museum of American Art. This visual and poetic tribute not only celebrates America's diversity and cultural heritage, but it also imparts an honest portrayal of how Americans have come to see their country and themselves. 1994, Hyperion Books, $18.95, $18.89 and $9.99. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Debra Briatico ISBN: 1-56282-664-6 ISBN: 1-56282-665-4 ISBN: 0-7868-1360-1 Best Books: Books in the Middle: Outstanding Books, 1994; Voice of Youth Advocates; United States Middle And Junior High School Library Catalog, Eighth Edition, 2000; H.W. Wilson; United States Notable Books for Children, 1994; American Library Association-ALSC; United States School Library Journal Book Review Stars, November 1994; Cahners; United States School Library Journal: Best Books, 1994; Cahners; United States School Library Journal: Best Books for Young Adults, 1994; Cahners; United States Teachers' Choices, 1995; International Reading Association; United States Awards, Honors, Prizes: ABC Children's Booksellers Choices Award Winner 1995 Collections United States Did You See That Eagle? Betty Paraskevas Illustrated by Michael Paraskevas    The tall sailing ships are making their way into New York harbor for a Fourth of July Celebration, and coming along with them is an eagle—one of the well-known symbols of our country. The power in the eagle's great body, the intensity of its gaze, and the span of its wings all echo the greatness of America and what the country has done. The text, which is a song by Betty Paraskevas, has been set to music and is reproduced on the last spread. Michael Paraskevs, the author's son, has provided a series of dizzying views of the eagle. The perspective is a bit skewed in some instances in order to show off the eagle as it is set against the sailing ships, the New York skyline, and most gloriously against the setting sun with the tall ships in the foreground. 2000, Simon & Schuster, $16.00. Ages 6 to 8. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot ISBN: 0-689-82864-0 Best Books: The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2001; Bank Street College of Education; United States Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001; H.W. Wilson; United States F is for Flag Wendy Cheyette Lewison Illustrated by Barbara Duke    With a bright, conversational tone, Lewison takes readers through the many aspects of the American Flag-where it is displayed, what it stands for, its origins, its nicknames, and how we respect it. The illustrations are colorful and accessible, and a sense of patriotism and Americana are present throughout. Multiple cultures are shown while the text and pictures both emphasize that we are one big family. This is a great way to introduce young readers to our flag and all the meaning that stands behind it. The book states that Betsy Ross may not have been the one who made the first flag, scoring several points for historical accuracy.2002, Grosset & Dunlap, Ages 6 to 8, $3.49. Reviewer: Carey Ahr ISBN: 0-448-42838-5 The Flag We Love Pam Muñoz Ryan Illustrated by Ralph Masiello    In her poetic paean, Pam Muoz Ryan "sings" of the symbolism inherent to displays of The Flag We Love when raised at school each morning, for example, flown on the 4th of July, or placed at the Viet Nam Memorial. Ralph Masiello's intense paintings powerfully portray the patriotic fervor of Ms. Ryan's verses for young people. 1996, Charlesbridge, $16.88, $15.95, $7.95. Ages 7 up. Reviewer: Beverly Kobrin ISBN: 0-881068-454 (HC) ISBN: 0-881068-44-6 (SC) ISBN: 0-881068-46-2 (LB) The Flag We Love Pam Muñoz Ryan Illustrated by Ralph Masiello    An American flag, the familiar red, white and blue, ripples in a sky filled with fireworks—a reminder of all of the joy and pride we take in one of our most enduring national symbols. As Ryan tells readers, no one really knows who designed or created the first flag or why the colors were chosen. Interestingly, there were no guidelines initially regarding the size or placement of the stars. She doesn't tell us when the flag was standardized, but what she does tell us is fascinating. Six American flags "fly" on the moon, one for each Apollo landing. Flags fly over schools, at national monuments, and are a big part of celebrations such as those for the Fourth of July. Flags fly at half-mast to honor the dead and they fly at our ports to welcome all who arrive at this country. Her text and Masiello's wonderful illustrations will make us all remember that the American flag represents "many of America's hopes and dreams." It is my hope that this book will find a place in school and public libraries and that children and adults will pause to think about our flag, this nation, and what we stand for. 2000 (orig. 1996), Charlesbridge, $16.95 and $7.95. Ages 5 up. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot ISBN: 0-881068-45-4 ISBN: 0-881068-44-6 ISBN: 0-881068-46-2 Best Books: Adventuring with Books: A Booklist for Pre-K—Grade 6, 12th Edition, 1999; National Council of Teachers of English; United States Food Festival, U.S.A. Becky Mercuri Illustrations by Tom Klare    From the Maine Lobster Festival in Rockland, Maine to the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, sample American food and ethnic festivals coast-to-coast. Be ready to travel to all fifty states through these pages, and get a history lesson through the regional traditions and customs celebrating local harvest and pride. The most interesting sounding festival might be the Prairie Dog Chili Cook Off and World Championship Pickled Quail Egg Eating Contest in Texas. This is a two-day event kicked off with a parade and jalapeno pepper-cutting ceremony. Anvil tossing and tobacco spitting contests are included but take a back seat to the chili and eggs. Thank goodness recipes are given with each festival, some offbeat, created for festival cooking contests, others family favorites that are generously shared. A directory at the back of the book lists festivals by the month, as well as state-by-state, with complete contact information. 2002, Laurel Glen Publishing, Ages 14 up, $24.95. Reviewer: Barbara Kennedy ISBN: 1-57145-775-5 Home: A Journey Through America Illustrated by Thomas Locker Edited by Thomas Locker and Candace Christiansen.    Many of the poets and authors appearing in this collection will be recognized; Robert Frost, Pat Mora, Jane Yolen, and Joseph Bruchac, to name a few. The writings juxtaposed to the pictures all depict the landscapes that represent home to each of the authors. The oils by Locker move from seascape to mountains, to deserts and river valleys—and depict the variety and vastness that are America. A particularly attractive spread is the one containing a poem Locker himself wrote, "Birches in the Fall," with the accompanying picture capturing golden light playing on the darker gold leaves of the silvery white birch trees. The painting looks like it should be framed and hung in a museum. Located at the bottom right corner of the text pages are brief blurbs about the authors. It is a lovely book, but its appeal may be limited to those who enjoy poetry and classical painting. 1998, Silver Whistle/Harcourt, $16.00. Ages 7 up. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot ISBN: 0-15-201473-X Best Books: Not Just for Children Any More, 1999; Children's Book Council; Unites States I Pledge Allegiance: The Pledge of Allegiance: With Commentary Bill Martin, Jr. and Michael Sampson Illustrated by Chris Raschka    Bill Martin, Jr. states, "It's a miracle that children can even recite the Pledge of Allegiance with its sophisticated and complex language, yet they jump right in." To help them know what they are saying he and Sampson have defined single words and phrases of the entire text. The history of the pledge, reasons for the colors of the flag, and etiquette while saying the pledge can all be found in the explanations. In discussing the words, "under God" they state, "Many people believe that a democracy is a reflection of how God thinks - every single person is important." Raschka's illustrations are created with ink and torn paper. The people have a childlike chalkboard retro look which will broaden the appeal to a wider reader age range. The full pledge without breaks is included in the back of the book. Can be used not only to help a child or new immigrant understand the pledge, but also as a discussion starter in social studies classes. 2002, Reviewer: Ages 6 to 9, $15.99. Reviewer: Sharon Salluzzo ISBN: 0-7636-1648-6 I, Too, Sing America: Three Centuries of African-American Poetry Selected and Annotated by Catherine Clinton Illustrated by Stephen Alcorn    When one is given a book—a gift—of poetry, it is sometimes hard to define the characteristics that distinguish it from every other anthology in its category. In the case of this splendid group of poems by African American writers, the special qualities virtually leap off the page and demand to be noticed. Notably, there is the strong visual appeal of the illustrations by Stephen Alcorn. Softly colored but strongly evocative, these pages perfectly complement the poems they describe with impressionistic images. Then there are the brief biographies of each of the twenty-five poets. Clinton has added these intriguing sketches to place the poet in historical context, but also to establish a timeline, a progression, of the African American presence in America. The biographies include enticing tidbits of Black history and lore, such as the fact that poet James Weldon Johnson served as consul to Venezuela in 1906. Readers will also note the high level of education and achievement among these men and women of letters, many of whom were able to attend college when higher education was the exception, not the rule, for all Americans. Overwhelmingly, the greatest achievement of this collection is the poetry itself, an incredible mix of styles, sophistication and lyricism which will captivate the reader. Names like Langston Hughes, W.E.B. DuBois, Maya Angelou, and Alice Walker are prominent in the collection. Yet, lesser-known writers like slave poets Phillis Wheatley and Moses Horton and the numerous voices that sing out from the Harlem Renaissance movement make no less of an impact. Readers may be horrified by Lucy Terry's epic observation of an Indian massacre as seen through a slave's eyes. They may be torn by the numerous, gut-wrenching testimonies to the pain of racism in America. Children of all races will identify with contemporary poet Rita Dove's sassy statement of personal worth in the face of schoolyard teasing. Every reader should find some universal emotion, some encompassing yearning, with which to identify in this volume that runs the gamut of the African American experience. If you are a librarian or a teacher, do not consign this book to a Black history collection or a children's poetry shelf. Its appeal is all-inclusive. 1998, Houghton Mifflin Company, $20.00. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Lois Rubin Gross ISBN: 0-395-89599-5 Best Books: The Best Children's Books of the Year, 1999; Bank Street College of Education; United States Books in the Middle: Outstanding Books, 1998; Voice of Youth Advocates; United States Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001; H.W. Wilson; United States Kaleidoscope, A Multicultural Booklist for Grades K-8, Third Edition, 2001; National Council of Teachers of English; United States Middle And Junior High School Library Catalog, Eighth Edition, 2000; H.W. Wilson; United States Not Just for Children Any More, 1999; Children's Book Council; Unites States Awards, Honors, Prizes: Claudia Lewis Award Winner 1998 United States Liberty Allan Drummond.    The fire of patriotism has burned particularly brightly since the tragedy of September 11. Drummond begins his inspirational tale with the unveiling of the Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor in 1886, told from the point of view of the boy who actually gave the signal to the sculptor Bartholdi. A brief description of the construction of the statue in France and America is followed by scenes of the crowds and the excitement of that moment of unveiling, and again of that at sunset when "Liberty's torch shone out bright from the land of the free to light up all the world." Our narrator concludes with his delight in the freedom we have, which "is like a flame we must all hold high and give to others and keep burning bright all around the world." Drummond's busy line and dashy watercolor washes are set on pages with lots of white space, blue sky and water. They bring a light-heartedness to the bits of text and speech balloons mingling with vignettes and larger pictures of the people and events. An introductory note adds factual background. 2002, Frances Foster Books/Farrar Straus and Giroux, $17.00. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewers: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz ISBN: 0-374-34385-3 Best Books: Publishers Weekly Book Review Stars, June 24, 2002; Cahners; United States The Lincoln Memorial Kathleen W. Deady    Built to honor President Abraham Lincoln, the memorial is an imposing marble structure located in Washington D.C. Since its completion in 1922, it has been a popular tourist spot, visited by 3,000,000 people annually. After Lincoln, the 16th president, was assassinated, Americans wanted a memorial. Years later, money was granted for this impressive building. Designed by Henry Bacon, it is in the style of the famous Greek Parthenon. Located at the west end of the Mall, the memorial is in line with the Capitol and the Washington Monument. A nineteen-foot tall seated statue of the president is the focal point of the main room. Excellent historical and color photographs, a glossary, timeline, and additional sources are included. As part of the "National Landmarks" series, the book gives many facts about the famous building. Simple text makes this an ideal source for young readers. 2002, Bridgestone Books/Capstone Press, Ages 6 to 10, $18.00. Reviewer: Laura Hummel ISBN: 0-7368-1114-1 My Fellow Americans: A Family Album Alice Provensen    This book could serve as an outline for social studies at all levels. A treasure trove of men and women whose ideas, genius, foresight, and talents have forged the fabric of our society. Its strength lies in its groupings of people, i.e. Pathfinders, Settlers and Image Makers of the West, Free Spirits, Rebel Voices, Scoundrels, Artists, Playwrights, etc. Like browsing through a personal photo album, the picture is the teaser that leads the viewer to ask more questions and dig elsewhere to flesh out that person's story. For adults the fun is to see how many of these people you can identify. It's a challenge. 1995, Harcourt, $20.00. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Jan Lieberman ISBN: 0-15-276642-1 My Fellow Americans: A Family Album Alice Provensen    This album of the American family is particularly engrossing because it includes both the traditional captioned pictures and the behind-the-scenes spicy gossip. It is a loving tribute that showcases the famous, the infamous, the moral leaders and the scamps who live in our American cultural consciousness. 1995, Harcourt, $20.00. Ages 6 up. Reviewer: Judy Katsh ISBN: 0152766421 Best Books: Notable Children's Trade Books in the Field of the Social Studies, 1995; National Council for the Social Studies; United States School Library Journal Book Review Stars, December 1995; Cahners; United States Awards, Honors, Prizes: ABC Children's Booksellers Choices Award Winner 1996 Non-Fiction United States Society of School Librarians International Book Awards 1996 United States Norman Rockwell: Storyteller With a Brush Beverly Gherman    Gherman's subtitle for her short biography of Rockwell is a good definition of an illustration. It's particularly apt for Rockwell, who chose to see the world from the point of view of the common American and was and still is much loved for his vision. Sure, his images were optimistic—even sentimental—but they spoke to us of what we wanted to see in our past and present. Rockwell's life was much like his pictures. He was a scrawny kid who grew into an unassuming adult. He worked hard, raised a family, and lived modestly. His was a Frank Capra sort of small-town life. It's not a bad image to give today's kids. Neither are his pictures, which are beautifully reproduced in this well written and handsome book. 2000, Atheneum, $19.95. Ages 8 up. Reviewer: Kathleen Karr ISBN: 0-689-82001-1 Norman Rockwell: Storyteller With a Brush Beverly Gherman    Which artist captured the many faces of America? None other than Norman Rockwell, the storyteller with a brush. Adored by the public because of his notable magazine covers for The Saturday Evening Post, he was neglected by art critics of his day, which disappointed him greatly. In a beautifully designed book complete with family photos and full page color reproductions of treasured magazine covers, Ms. Gherman tells Rockwell's story with humor and insight. I urge teachers to take note of this remarkable biography and recommend it to their students. It's not 100 pages, the requirement for biography assignments, but the contents and the impact of Rockwell's life and drawings will inspire children in ways not measured by page numbers. Rockwell's painting of Ruby Bridges, surrounded by U.S. Marshals, is a social comment about the times that defy words and succeeded in impacting the entire country with the importance of integration. 1999, Atheneum, $19.95. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Jan Lieberman ISBN: 0-689-82001-1 Best Books: The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2001; Bank Street College of Education; United States Booklist: Editors' Choice: Books for Youth, 2000; American Library Association; United States Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001; H.W. Wilson; United States Middle And Junior High School Library Catalog, Supplement to the Eighth Edition, 2001; H.W. Wilson; United States Notable Books for Children, 2001; American Library Association-ALSC; United States Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People, 2001; National Council for the Social Studies; United States Parent's Guide to Children's Media, 2000; Parent's Guide to Children's Media, Inc.; United States Smithsonian Magazine's Notable Books for Children, 2000; Smithsonian; United States On the Mall in Washington, D.C. Brent Ashabranner Photographs by Jennifer Ashabranner    Subtitled "A Visit to America's Front Yard," this book surveys perhaps the most evocative 2 miles in America, from the Capitol building to the Lincoln Memorial. It describes the memorials, the museums, the ponds and gardens, and special events on the Mall, from 4th of July celebrations to famous demonstrations such as the 1963 March on Washington. There is also a chapter on future memorials and museums, visitor information, a list of important places near the Mall, resources for more information, and an index. Sidebars provide more detailed information on individual sights and profile individuals such as Pierre Charles L'Enfant, original designer of the Mall and Washington, D.C., and James Smithson, whose generous bequest founded the Smithsonian Institution. The text is thorough and well written. Each sight mentioned in the text has a number corresponding to a large map at the center of the book. Full-color, captioned photographs illustrate the text. The book is a handy resource for children writing reports on the capitol or visiting Washington, and can be used by parents as a family travel guide. 2002, The Millbrook Press, Ages 8 to 12, $23.90. Reviewer: Pamela S. Turner ISBN: 0-7613-2351-1 One Nation: America by the Numbers Devin Scillian Illustrated by Pam Carroll    Consecutive numbers from one to fifteen, twenty, fifty and one hundred are presented in relation to Americana. The number one is for "One nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all." Often, the other numbers recall two or more items. Some are playful, such as nine players on a baseball team. But that is paired with nine members of the Supreme Court. The current justices are pictured behind third base. The rhyming text is accompanied by a vertical border that provides additional information in slightly smaller print and the numeral at the bottom. There are references to the states, the Statue of Liberty, historical documents, and early space pioneers. The number Twelve seems to have posed a problem: it talks about a dozen and only in the small print does it mention the number of people in an American jury. Carroll has been both literal and creative in her art. For thirteen stripes, she pictures the flag on the back of a tricycle, a red, white, and blue ball, a red and white striped jump rope, and a hop scotch board prominently displaying the numeral 13. The page discussing the seven Southern states has an outdoor market displaying products for which each state is known. In a couple of instances, information is lost in the gutter. While not an essential purchase, this does present a few brief facts about the United States in a fun way. It could be used to pique interest in historical, social, or geographical content. 2002, Sleeping Bear Press, Ages 7 to 10, $19.95. Reviewer: Sharon Salluzzo ISBN: 1-58536-063-5 Purple Mountain Majesties: The story of Katharine Lee Bates and America the Beautiful Barbara Younger Illustrated by Stacey Schuett    Both a biography of a young woman and a history of a song that many believe should be our national anthem, this richly illustrated book brings into focus an America of long ago. Katharine Lee Bates, an East Coast teacher and poet, was asked to do some guest teaching at a college in Colorado. It was on her train trip west that Ms. Bates took her first up-close look at the wild and majestic land that she was to immortalize in song. The informal writing style and full-page Americana illustrations of this book will make readers comfortable as they accompany Ms. Bates on her journey. Music teachers will welcome this book as a history of song. History teachers will welcome this book as a treasury of turn of the 20th Century artifacts and trends. Writing teachers will welcome this book as a tribute to writing and rewriting and revising. And all lovers of the hymn written in tribute to America's natural splendor will resoundingly welcome this book. 1998, Dutton Children's Books, $15.99. Ages 6 to 12. Reviewer: Judy Katsh ISBN: 0-525-45653-8 Red, White, and Blue: The Story of the American Flag John Herman Illustrated by Robin Roraback    The history of the flag, including the famed but not proven story of Betsy Ross and the first flag, entertains and informs readers. Herman tells about the variety of flags during the American Revolution and the various ways that the early stars and stripes were depicted. It wasn't until 1818 that Congress decided that the flag would have thirteen stripes to represent the original states and that the field of blue would contain a star for each state. The colorful illustrations are great and add humor and interest. Part of the "All Aboard Reading" series, this level 2 book would also work well in adult programs for those just learning English. 1998, Putnam, $13.89 and $3.99. Ages 6 to 8. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot ISBN: 0-448-41270-5 ISBN: 0-448-41271-3 Red, White, Blue, and Uncle Who?: The Stories Behind Some of America's Patriotic Symbols Teresa Bateman Illustrated by John O'Brien    Seventeen American patriotic symbols are presented and discussed historically, symbolically and in present-day context. Bateman includes architecture such as the Capitol and the White House, memorials such as those of Lincoln, Vietnam Veterans, Korean War and Thomas Jefferson, symbols such as the Great Seal, the flag, Uncle Sam, the eagle and the Pledge of Allegiance, and monuments such as Mount Rushmore and the Statue of Liberty. The text is informative, chronologically organized, interestingly presented with some relevant asides and entertainingly illustrated with O'Brien's crosshatched, pen-and-ink pictures. While many of these symbols have recently been treated singly and in books by Lynn Curlee, Guilio Maestro and Leonard Everett Fisher, as well as by Delno West in his similar book, Uncle Sam and Old Glory, this good resource will inform report writers as well as those curious about how American symbols came to be. Most of the symbols are a part of Washington, D.C.'s history as well, making this a book of regional interest, as well as national. The book includes an index but no bibliography or related references. 2001, Holiday House, $15.95. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Susan Hepler ISBN: 0-8234-1285-7 Best Books: Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young Readers, 2002; National Council for the Social Studies; United States The Statue of Liberty Kathleen W. Deady    Symbolizing freedom and hope, the majestic Statue of Liberty stands on an island in New York Harbor. Built as a gift of friendship by France, Lady Liberty's formal name is "Liberty Enlightening the World." Two million people a year visit the statue and many of them climb the 354 steps to the crown to view from the windows located there. Frenchman Edouard de Laboulaye had the idea for the statue and Frederic-Auguste Bartholdi was the sculptor. Americans raised the money for the pedestal on which Lady Liberty stands, thanks to the efforts of publisher Joseph Pulitzer. Many interesting facts are given about this famous structure in the book which is part of the "National Landmarks" series. Important dates, a glossary, a fast facts section, and additional sources are included with excellent historical and color photographs. The simple text makes this a good source for young readers. 2002, Bridgestone Books/Capstone Press, Ages 6 to 10, $18.00. Reviewer: Laura Hummel ISBN: 0-7368-1115-X The Statue of Liberty Ann Heinrichs    The Statue of Liberty is certainly one of the most recognizable American symbols and one that has lasting memories for immigrants who sailed past her uplifted torch and burned with the hope of creating new lives in a new land. The statue also symbolizes the friendship and admiration between the French and American peoples. How the statue came to be, the men who designed and created her, and the arduous fundraising efforts are ably and clearly described. Especially interesting is Pulitzer's effort to raise funds for the pedestal and his promise to print in his newspaper, the names of every donor—even those who could only send a few pennies. Emma Lazarus and her poem and the recent renovations to the statue are all here, once again emphasizing the French and American relationship, as a team of French workers assisted in building a new torch. A good introductory book for students that contains full color and black-and-white illustrations, a glossary, a timeline and other informative and interesting backmatter. Part of the "We the People" series. 2001, Compass Point Books, $21.26. Ages 7 to 10. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot ISBN: 0-7565-0100-8 The Story Of The American Flag Wayne Whipple    Originally published in 1910, this history of the American flag is of interest in its own right as a historical document. In 1910, the United States was an industrial giant with modest colonial holdings. The nation had recently completed a "splendid little war" against Spain and was in an era of prosperity. Immigration into the nation was peaking as new waves of foreigners were sweeping into the country in search of better lives. However, little thought was being given to the gathering threat of war across the sea in Europe, a war that was to engulf the world in a few short years. Placed in its historical context, Whipple's small primer for citizens interested in learning flag trivia and history seems to fit. Taken out of that context and placed ninety years later into the modern age, his prose seems not only antiquated, but trivial. While there are a number of basic facts concerning the evolution of the Stars and Stripes, much of the book is full of saccharine rhetoric. The absorption of the Philippine Islands, which led to a brutal thirty year guerrilla war with local freedom fighters, is described as a liberation of "dusky" people. At a time when African-Americans were being regularly lynched in the South, Whipple describes America as a land of total freedom and kindness. Representative of the textual style of the age of American imperialism, this small book serves as a reminder that historical writing is a product of the spirit of the times in which it was constructed. Even the black and white illustrations bespeak not history, but propaganda and romanticism. This is a book that history teachers may find of value as an example of slanted publications and documents. However, this book is not recommended for any sort of instruction. 2000, Applewood Books, $12.95. Ages 12 up. Reviewer: Greg M. Romaneck ISBN: 1-55709-501-9 This Land Is Your Land Words and music by Woody Guthrie Paintings by Kathy Jakobsen With a tribute by Pete Seeger     As she did for Reeve Lindbergh's Johnny Appleseed, Jakobsen's detailed folk artist oil paintings on canvas make visual this most American of songs by Woody Guthrie. Wide-open spreads of each verse detail a wandering troubadour who sees cities, valleys, prairies, beaches, deserts, and redwood forests: the land that was "made for you and me." The repeating chorus is illustrated in old-fashioned postcard format: an oval center of the postcard depicts Woody singing or writing songs in many of the settings important to his life while four surrounding vignettes and two sidebars depict some of the subject matter of his songs. In addition, small quilt-like squares in the corners repeat familiar phrases and couplets from Guthrie's many songs. Jakobsen features the complete lyrics so that the more politically pointed ones not usually sung in schools are included. Illustrations depict breadlines and ravaged urban neighborhoods and later these same scenes now cleaned up and full of hope, as were Guthrie's songs. Scholarly notes include a tribute to Woody Guthrie that was written by his old singing partner Pete Seeger and a two-page biography illustrated with archival photos of Guthrie and his family. All and all, this beautifully designed book belongs in every school as a part of our musical history, as a tribute to the Dust Bowl era and the political activism that music can reinforce and encourage, and as an elegant example of picture book art. All children can sing along, of course, but older children will appreciate the way so many aspects of Guthrie's life and times have been worked into the pictures. 1998, Little Brown, $15.95. Ages 6 to 14. Reviewer: Susan Hepler This Land Is Your Land Words and music by Woody Guthrie Paintings by Kathy Jakobsen With a tribute by Pete Seeger     Jakobsen has managed to show our country's diversity both in people and scenery. The paintings are breathtaking. Each double page spread includes two lines of the song. At the completion of the song, there is a colorful foldout map showing the Woody Guthrie Memorial Highway and the array of people and activities that inspired him. A three-page tribute to Guthrie by Pete Seeger, with family photos and the music, complete the book. The only thing missing is a tape of Guthrie singing this spine-tingling song which could easily be our national anthem. The most inspirational book of 1998. 1998, Little Brown, $14.95. Ages 3 to 10. Reviewer: Jan Lieberman ISBN: 0-316-39215-4 Best Books: Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001; H.W. Wilson; United States Fanfare Honor List, 1998; Horn Book; United States Not Just for Children Any More, 1999; Children's Book Council; Unites States Not Just for Children Any More, 2001; Children's Book Council; Unites States Not Just for Children Any More, 2000; Children's Book Council; Unites States Notable Books for Children, 1999; American Library Association-ALSC; United States Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People, 1999; National Council for the Social Studies; United States Publishers Weekly Best Children's Books, 1998; Cahners; United States Publishers Weekly Book Review Stars, July 1998; Cahners; United States Reading Magic Awards, 1998; Parenting; United States School Library Journal Book Review Stars, August 1998; Cahners; United States School Library Journal: Best Books, 1998; Cahners; United States Awards, Honors, Prizes: Jane Addams Book Award Honor Book 1999 Picture Book United States Society of School Librarians International Book Awards 1999 United States State Reading Lists: Black-Eyed Susan Book Award Nominees, 2002; Maryland This Land Was Made For You and Me: The Life and Songs of Woody Guthrie Elizabeth Partridge    This is a great biography of America's best-known folk singer and composer. Woody Guthrie was not a model citizen. If your child hung out with someone like Woody, you'd be worried. He was a school dropout, stayed away from home for weeks at a time, hung with his friends on street corners, and stole. But Woody had good reasons to stay away from home. His mother was insane and probably responsible for his sister being burned to death; his father was a drunken brawler. Woody had an undisciplined but inquiring mind and a talent for drawing and for making up songs. As a young man during the Depression, he hopped a train and joined the army of poor people roaming the country looking for work. His anger at how poor people were dismissed or mistreated by the more fortunate inspired some of his best-known songs, such as "Greenback Dollar" and this "Land is My Land," anthems of empathy and defiance. This biography is well documented with extensive footnotes. And the oversized book, designed by Edward Miller, is chock full of interesting black-and-white photographs. 2002, Viking, Ages 12 up, $21.99. Reviewer: Michael Cooper ISBN: 0-670-03535-1 Tulip sees America Cynthia Rylant Illustrations by Lisa Desimini    With this odd book about a young man who travels from Ohio to Oregon with his dog Tulip, it's hard to tell if it's for children or young adults. With beautiful descriptions of mountains, skies, winds, and farms, the loosely poetic prose is compelling, lyrical, and often choppy. It pertains more to the coming of age, finding yourself interests of young adults than the adventurous quests of younger readers. Perhaps young kids are meant to connect with the dog mentioned in the title, but the illustrations and the text clearly place the focus more on the narrator/driver. Still, younger children may enjoy the dramatic portrayal of the topography and weather of various states. There is also an odd scene when the narrator disrobes in the desert for no apparent reason. The inclusion of this scene portrays nakedness, not nudity. Many young children do enjoy the freedom of the running around the buff, but the narrator doesn't provide a clear explanation of the importance of this element. The bright, computer-enhanced illustrations are dynamic, vibrant, and eye-catching. 1997, Blue Sky/Scholastic, $15.95. Ages 6 up. Reviewer: Alexandria LaFaye ISBN: 0-590-84744-9 Uncle Sam and Old Glory: Symbols of America Delno C. West and Jean M. West Woodcuts by Christopher Manson    How many times have you sung "Yankee Doodle," waved an American flag, or eaten turkey for Thanksgiving dinner? Have you ever wondered where such traditions came from? In Uncle Sam and Old Glory, readers find the answer to this and other questions as they explore the history of fifteen symbols of America. A detailed, accessible introduction explains the functions of symbols in our world and why such symbols are important. A one-page summary and color woodcut articulate the history of fifteen prominent American symbols from the Statue of Liberty to Smoky the Bear and the American bald eagle to the buffalo. The summaries both educate and entertain as they explore historical fact and provide interesting tidbits of our American past. The accompanying color woodcuts are equally appropriate, infusing an all-American, self-made feel to the illustrations. 2000, Atheneum Books for Young Readers, $17.00. Ages 7 up. Reviewer: Leah Hanson. ISBN: 0-689-82043-7 The Washington Monument Muriel L. Dubois    As one of the tallest stone towers in the world, the Washington Monument was built to honor President George Washington. It is an obelisk, which towers over the National Mall in Washington D.C. Construction began in 1848, but the memorial was not completed until 1888. Funding, poor management and the Civil War delayed construction. Over one million people a year visit the monument, taking an elevator to the top for a view of the city. Fifty flags representing each state circle the marble and granite structure. Many interesting facts are given in simple text. As part of the "National Landmarks" series, the book includes a timeline, glossary, facts page, and additional sources. Excellent historical and color photographs help tell the story of the famous monument. 2002, Bridgestone Books/Capstone Press, Ages 6 to 10, $ 18.60. Reviewer: Laura Hummel ISBN: 0-7368-1117-6 For more information on America and its history, visit theNational Museum of American History To stay up to date on new books on this topic, consider subscribing to The Children's Literature Comprehensive Database. For your free trial, click here.