The Niagara River

Children's Literature

This well-written book covers the geology, history, industrialization and bridging of the powerful Niagara River, including its famous falls. Only 35 miles long, the Niagara flows from Lake Erie into Lake Ontario, splitting around Grand Island and then again at Goat Island at the Falls. Formed by glaciers during the Ice Age, the river's tremendous power comes largely from its steep drop of 323 feet in 35 miles and its constant water flow. The river has played a part in American history since the early 1700s; it has been a source of power since used by Daniel Joncaire to run his sawmill in the 1750s. The invention of hydroelectricity led to its truly being harnessed as an energy source. With industrialization, of course, came significant problems of pollution, which are still being dealt with today. The Falls are also a major tourist attraction. Whitcraft clearly explains the scientific content, although it would have been helpful to include some diagrams of things like the geology of the river or alternating versus direct current. Occasional sidebars offer little tidbits of interest; a glossary explains words bolded in the text. A timeline and bibliography of books, organizations and web sites are also helpful and age-appropriate. This would definitely be a useful resource for social studies and science reports. Part of the "Watts Library World of Water" series. 2001, Grolier Publishing/Franklin Watts, $24.00 and $8.95. Ages 10 to 13. Reviewer: Peg Glisson<%ISBN%>0531119033

School Library Journal

Gr 4-8-Thoroughly researched and smartly organized, these titles are worthwhile additions to any library. They each present a multifaceted look at one particular river's impact on the area's landforms, industry, and history. The texts are sprightly and packed with facts. The focused chapters seem especially well reasoned, which enhances their readability and usefulness for research. Fine full-color photos, maps, and historical photos appear throughout. (The otherwise good map in Niagara is missing two bridges.) While the breadth of material presented is considerable and most useful for intermediate-grade reports, researchers as young as second or third grade will find these titles helpful due to the clarity of writing.-Steve Clancy, Colonial Village Elementary School, Niagara Falls, NY Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information.