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THE EARLIEST AMERICANS

Name: THE EARLIEST AMERICANS
Author: Helen Roney Sattler
ISBN: 0-395-54996-5

by Helen Roney Sattler & illustrated by Jean Day Zallinger ‧ RELEASE DATE: April 20, 1993

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In attractive large format, a clearly organized, readable introduction to the earliest humans to populate the Americas, arranged chronologically from their first appearance (at least 15,000 years ago) to the time of Columbus. Both text and illustrations are full of intriguing detail: Sattler clearly shows how current archeological discoveries lead scientists to draw conclusions about the lives and astounding accomplishments of the various peoples; Zallinger's meticulous brown-toned drawings feature maps, artifacts, and children and adults in daily activities. Both text and illustrations have been checked for accuracy by experts, though one might quibble over the incomplete description of the Mayan mathematical system. Pronunciation guides and definitions are frequently provided in the text (there's no glossary). A time chart provides fascinating comparisons with peoples in Europe, Asia, and Africa. Lengthy chapter-by-chapter bibliography, including many recent items from adult periodicals; index. (Nonfiction. 10+)

Pub Date: April 20, 1993

ISBN: 0-395-54996-5

Page Count: 128

Publisher: Clarion Books

Review Posted Online: May 19, 2010

Kirkus Reviews Issue: May 1, 1993

Categories:

CHILDREN'S HISTORICAL FICTION

- BOOK REVIEW
OUR PATCHWORK PLANET
by Helen Roney Sattler & illustrated by Giulio Maestro

- BOOK REVIEW
THE BOOK OF NORTH AMERICAN OWLS
by Helen Roney Sattler & illustrated by Jean Day Zallinger

- BOOK REVIEW
STEGOSAURS
by Helen Roney Sattler & illustrated by Turi MacCombie

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THUNDER ROLLING IN THE MOUNTAINS

by Scott O'Dell & Elizabeth Hall ‧ RELEASE DATE: April 1, 1992

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Seen through the eyes of Chief Joseph's daughter, Sound of Running Feet, O'Dell's last novel (coauthored and completed after his death by his wife) recounts the circuitous, tragic journey of the Ne-mee-poo (Nez Perce) from their Oregon home to the Lapwai Reservation in Idaho. Wisely recognizing that there's no way to fight the entrenching whites, Chief Joseph counters calls to war from dissenting tribal leaders and agrees to lead his people on what becomes an epic ordeal. Attacked by settlers en route, they win some battles against the "Blue Coats,"but the decimated tribe makes it into Crow territory only to find that their former allies are in league with the Army. Heading for refuge with Sitting Bull in Canada, they're caught in a surprise attack that leaves no choice but surrender. Bringing this bleak historical episode to life in spare, supple prose that echoes Joseph's own dignified words, the authors offer a fascinating look at the heroism of ordinary people. While the strong-willed narrator, her father, and her brave betrothed at first seem larger than life, it is quickly apparent that they don't consider themselves as such; and though she wishes she could fight, the girl dutifully takes her place caring for the young and the infirm. The authors don't tone down war's violence; they simply present it with unembellished clarity that is certain to leave a lasting impression, ending on a memorable note of reconciliation. A fitting end to a distinguished career. (Fiction. 10-14)