Wagon trains and settlers

Gr 4-6-Appealing, full-page, slice-of-life illustrations are the strongest elements of these introductions to early and frontier America. Two-page chapters examine an aspect of the main topic and incorporate information about women, children, Native Americans, and ethnic groups. Although the authors avoid graphic details, they discuss some of the difficulties of frontier life and the negative consequences of American expansion. Sidebars provide additional details about related topics. The captioned illustrations, which include cut-away views, maps, and realistic depictions of everyday activities, will help capture and hold readers' attention, making this set a strong choice for elementary collections. (c) Copyright 2011. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

This series provides snapshots of life during significant periods in American history. Important and well-known individuals and events are highlighted throughout on double-page spreads. It's all a little whitewashed, but the texts' friendly tone will draw in readers, as will the pages packed with eye-catching visuals--sketches, spot art, photos, etc. (though spreads may be difficult for some readers to navigate). Reading list, timeline, websites. Glos., ind. [Review covers these All About America titles: Colonists and Independence, Cowboys and the Wild West, Wagon Trains and Settlers, and Gold Rush and Riches.] (c) Copyright 2011. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.