Overview
Have you ever wondered how far back your family's ancestry could be traced? Maybe you're curious about where your great-great grandmother came from? A good way to begin to have these questions answered is to start a family tree. However, with all of the information that is available today, starting a family tree can be a daunting task. In Ancestor Hunt: Finding Your Family Online, author Nancy Shepherdson makes finding your ancestors easy through the use of the Internet. Learn how Web sites, links, listserves, software, and online family trees can aid you in your search for ancestors living as long ago as two hundred years. Helpful hints throughout the book will assist you in avoiding common mistakes along the way and in-text challenges will ensure that you are searching correctly. A comprehensive glossary is included that defines terms you may encounter while you search online. For further reading and a list of software and video recommendations, online resources, and related organizations are included to enhance your search. Read stories by real people, just like you, as they describe their hunts and successful searches for their ancestors. So, dial up, connect, and get started on your search. Maybe someone famous is hiding in your family tree!Synopsis
Have you ever wondered how far back your family's ancestry could be traced? Maybe you're curious about where your great-great grandmother came from? A good way to begin to have these questions answered is to start a family tree. However, with all of the information that is available today, starting a family tree can be a daunting task. In Ancestor Hunt: Finding Your Family Online, author Nancy Shepherdson makes finding your ancestors easy through the use of the Internet. Learn how Web sites, links, listserves, software, and online family trees can aid you in your search for ancestors living as long ago as two hundred years. Helpful hints throughout the book will assist you in avoiding common mistakes along the way and in-text challenges will ensure that you are searching correctly. A comprehensive glossary is included that defines terms you may encounter while you search online. For further reading and a list of software and video recommendations, online resources, and related organizations are included to enhance your search. Read stories by real people, just like you, as they describe their hunts and successful searches for their ancestors. So, dial up, connect, and get started on your search. Maybe someone famous is hiding in your family tree!
Heather Pittman - VOYA
This book describes the basics of genealogy, including how to get started, family interviews, online resources, and recordkeeping strategies. Shepherdson guides the reader through beginning genealogy in a relaxed, conversational manner that teens will enjoy. This book treats genealogical research as a treasure hunt, encouraging teens to become explorers in search of their family history. Shepherdson uses quotes and examples from real teen genealogists throughout the book, a technique that a young adult audience will appreciate. She walks readers through each step of the genealogical process, detailing everything from how to interview your grandmother to downloading software. The directions are clear and precise without being boring or preachy. One of the best aspects of this book is the companion Web site. There is a section called Chapter Links where the Web sites from each chapter are linked in the order in which they were mentioned. Anyone using this book can simply use the Web site as a jumping off point for reaching any link suggested by the author. All the links are live at press time and easy to use. Shepherdson also emphasizes the value of information sources beyond the Internet. She gives methods for finding birth certificates, wills, marriage licenses, and other information that can help readers piece together their ancestry. Each chapter has a fun challenge at the end that encourages the teen to try out the information just learned. Any teen interested in family history will find this book to be both useful and enjoyable. VOYA Codes 4Q 4P S (Better than most, marred only by occasional lapses; Broad general YA appeal; Senior High, defined as grades 10 to 12). 2003, FranklinWatts, ; Index. Illus. Maps. Biblio., Ages 15 to 18.
Editorials
VOYA
This book describes the basics of genealogy, including how to get started, family interviews, online resources, and recordkeeping strategies. Shepherdson guides the reader through beginning genealogy in a relaxed, conversational manner that teens will enjoy. This book treats genealogical research as a treasure hunt, encouraging teens to become explorers in search of their family history. Shepherdson uses quotes and examples from real teen genealogists throughout the book, a technique that a young adult audience will appreciate. She walks readers through each step of the genealogical process, detailing everything from how to interview your grandmother to downloading software. The directions are clear and precise without being boring or preachy. One of the best aspects of this book is the companion Web site. There is a section called Chapter Links where the Web sites from each chapter are linked in the order in which they were mentioned. Anyone using this book can simply use the Web site as a jumping off point for reaching any link suggested by the author. All the links are live at press time and easy to use. Shepherdson also emphasizes the value of information sources beyond the Internet. She gives methods for finding birth certificates, wills, marriage licenses, and other information that can help readers piece together their ancestry. Each chapter has a fun challenge at the end that encourages the teen to try out the information just learned. Any teen interested in family history will find this book to be both useful and enjoyable. VOYA Codes 4Q 4P S (Better than most, marred only by occasional lapses; Broad general YA appeal; Senior High, defined as grades 10 to 12). 2003, FranklinWatts, ; Index. Illus. Maps. Biblio., Ages 15 to 18.—Heather Pittman