Elephants

Children's Literature

In straightforward text illustrated with photographs, the volumes in this American Holidays series cover holidays, including Columbus Day, Presidents' Day, and Memorial Day. The large print as well as the generous use of white space makes this book suitable with younger children. After a brief introduction to Dr. King's life and work, including the words to his "I have a dream" speech, the author, who is Canadian, explains how the holiday was first created. A list of books and websites for further study as well as the simple index and glossary will assure independent use in the classroom or library. The recipe for Church Social Yeast Biscuits and the two simple crafts (a mobile and milk carton buses) suggested for Martin Luther King Jr. Day projects will be less useful. Recommended for schools or community groups seeking to introduce the holiday or for library research by younger children. Others wishing a good classroom read-aloud about Dr. King might prefer Martin Luther King, Jr., Civil Rights Hero (Raintree Steck-Vaughn, 2002) or Martin's Big Words (Hyperion, 2001). 2004, Weigl Publishers Inc, Ages 7 to 12.
—Augusta Scattergood

School Library Journal

Gr 2-4-These heavily illustrated titles look at the history of the three holidays and describe how and why Americans celebrate them. Designed to meet state and national standards, the books are manageable for newly independent readers. Red, white, and blue borders are used throughout, and while they are bright and eye-catching, they seem to overwhelm the slight texts. In the first title, archival black-and-white and full-color photos personalize the life and legacy of Dr. King. Memorial Day effectively uses a bit of historical trivia to introduce the origins of this commemorative celebration. Presidents' Day uses quotes from George Washington and Abraham Lincoln to add interest to the accounts of the two leaders whose birthdays were once remembered on separate days. Each spread has at least one image, but several of the pictures are just filler. Each title has a map showing celebrations across the country, a quiz to check what readers have learned, a page of facts, sources, crafts, and a recipe. Those who already own the "True Books" series (Children's) already have excellent information on these holidays. These books are serviceable supplements.-Pamela K. Bomboy, Chesterfield County Public Schools, VA Copyright 2004 Reed Business Information.