Exploring the New World

Children's Literature

The exploration of the North American continent by intrepid adventurers has traditionally been a subject for study and wonder. Setting out across the seemingly endless Atlantic Ocean in search of new lands remains an awesome endeavor. The sojourns of people such as Columbus, Leif Eriksson and Francis Drake are amazing efforts that were undertaken by driven individuals. It is this age of explorers that is the subject for this illustrated history book, one of five texts making up the "North American Historical Atlases" series. Starting with the Ice Age migrations of Paleo-Indian people from Siberia across the Beringian Land Bridge to Alaska, the author outlines the journey of human beings into the New World. The emergence of various Native American tribal groups sets the stage for the human habitation of North and South America for thousands of years. From the Vikings through the16th and 17th century Europeans, new comers overwhelmed native peoples. Whether the explorers were Spanish Conquistadors, English merchants or French trappers and traders, the final result of the Age of Exploration was the destruction of indigenous populations. Combining a lavish array of illustrations, period maps and art with a workable text, the author presents an appealing look at a dynamic, yet sadly tragic time in human history. 2000, Benchmark Books,

School Library Journal

Gr 4-7-These slim, clearly written titles use numerous full-color historical maps and reproductions to inform readers about these periods in our history. Divided into three broad chapters, they incorporate a range of perspectives representing a variety of peoples and places integrally involved in their respective eras. Headings within the chapters and sidebars add to the accessibility and attractiveness of the volumes. The illustrations are carefully captioned and work well to present concepts in conjunction with the texts. While Betsy Maestro's Exploration and Conquest (Lothrop, 1994), Joy Hakim's Making Thirteen Colonies (Oxford, 1999), and Edward Dolan's The American Revolution (Millbrook, 1995) cover these periods, Stefoff's informative overviews broaden the resources available for U.S. history units.-Janie Schomberg, Leal Elementary School, Urbana, IL Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information.