William Penn: Shaping a Nation

School Library Journal

Gr 4—6—Star-Spangled Banner provides biographical information on Francis Scott Key, his friend Dr. William Beanes, and the historical events that inspired the anthem. William Penn details the founding of Pennsylvania. America's First Highway provides information on the history of paved roads and the creation of the Lincoln Highway, and Louisiana Purchase describes the events surrounding the transaction, including the French and Indian War and the westward expansion that began with the Louis and Clark expedition. The books feature bright, clear layouts, with primary-source photographs, reproductions, and documents filling the pages. Picture captions are in different colors and fonts throughout. Headings break up the chapters into smaller chunks of information. A particularly noteworthy feature of the books is the inclusion of graphic organizers throughout, which provide concise, visual representations of key facts such as causes and effects of events, flowcharts, and concept webs. Although these books are unlikely to circulate as pleasure reading, they serve their purpose.—Nicole Waskie, Chenango Forks Elementary, Binghamton, NY