United States - People & Places

Texas

Name: Texas
Author: Kathy Pelta
ISBN: 9780822541424

by Kathy Pelta

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Overview

Packed with fun facts about daily life, history, environmental issues, and much more, this series of 52 books (including Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia) provides a thorough introduction to the richness and diversity of America.

Introduces the geography, history, environment, economy, famous people, and culture of the Lone Star State.

Synopsis

Children's Literature

Texas is a diverse and storied state. Rich in history and long on tales, Texans have a pride for their state like no other. From the battle for independence to the presidents that it has provided the United States, one is hard pressed to find a Texan without a passion for their "country." Boasting some of the largest universities and cities in the nation, it is not hard to see how others agree with Texans. It is a place where politics and football rule. With over 100 state parks, Texans do not find it difficult to relax a little in the outdoors. Without a state income tax, industry moves to Texas and keeps its people working. Unfortunately, while the facts in this book may be accurate, they are not complete. With only five sentences describing the Alamo's place in history, Stephen (F.) Austin's name only being mentioned three times, and the environmental bashing of Texas, most Texans will find this book unacceptable. On the other hand, if you are not a Texan and you just wish to know a little about the state, this may be the book for you. A unique "All About Texas" section in the back of the book lists important people, dates for festivals and even web sites. This book is part of the "Hello U.S.A." series. 2002, Lerner, $25.26 and $6.95. Ages 9 up. Reviewer: Scott S. Floyd<%ISBN%>0822540649

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Editorials

Children's Literature

School Library Journal

Gr 3-5-Although not completely rewritten, these revised series entries sport several changes from the earlier editions, in both cosmetics and content. Slightly bigger pages, more spacious layout, and larger fonts with color accents make the books more attractive throughout. The quick-reference section at the end has a new heading and expanded content, including the "Fun Facts" relocated from the front of the book, a "Learn More" component listing books and Web sites, plus "State Song" and "Recipe" pages. Offering gumbo as Louisiana's recipe, however, ignores the difficulty of making a good roux base. Although the four main chapters also have new headings, the changes to these sections are limited to a handful of different illustrations, updated statistical information plugged into the necessary spots, and only two to three paragraphs of new text. The new maps are valuable but by not completely rewriting the texts, the authors miss the opportunity to correct some subtle Eurocentric bias in the history. Although Texas includes a fairly well-balanced inset about Quanah Parker, both volumes underestimate the contributions of their indigenous populations. Likewise, although Louisiana spotlights Free People of Color in an inset, both books tend to focus more on the abolition of slavery in economic terms rather than a tragically overdue, though admittedly nominal, recognition of African Americans' humanity. Still a strong alternative to the "From Sea to Shining Sea" series (Children's), these revised volumes nonetheless have their flaws.-Sean George, St. Charles Parish Library, Luling, LA Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information.