CHILDREN OF THE HANDCRAFTS

One of the outstanding books of the year, even cross sectioning all age groups and all types of books. It should live, not only for the valuable information contained therein, but because each story is, in itself, good reading, and because there is an inspirational quality in the whole. Stories based on authentic material drawn from letters, diaries, old records, and dealing with children who played their part in building a culture and civilization in a new land. There are familiar names, -- Paul Revere, Duncan Phyfe, Henry Thoreau; there are newcomers, Betsy, who must needs have a gay new bonnet and found a way to make one; whittling Johnny, who made his hobby his life work; the timid little Pennsylvania Dutch girl whose coverlet won her a place among the neighbors. An important book -- a delightful book. Charmingly illustrated by Grace Paull. Junior Literary Guild for December.