Sunday, January 19, 2014

Celebrating Virginia and Washington, D.C. by Marion Dane Bauer -- ADVISABLE

Bauer, Marion Dane Celebrating Virginia and Washington, D.C. (50 States to Celebrate), 40 pgs. HMH Books for Young Readers, 2013. $3.99. Content: G.

In this illustrated guide to Virginia and Washington, D.C., history teacher Mr. Geo takes students on a tour of the area, teaching them about everything from the early inhabitants, to significant historical events, to important landmarks. Contains a cartoonish map of the state, a list of "Fast Facts," important dates in the area's history, suggested activities, and a glossary.

It would have been nice to give Virginia and Washington, D.C. their own books, as there is a lot of information to cover, but otherwise the titles in this series are perfect for reports on the fifty states. The creative approach may make it more accessible for students who find straight-up nonfiction very dry. Although the back mentions an interest level of grades 1-4, the illustrations and text should work for many struggling middle school students, too. The only things missing are actual photographs instead of illustrations, but supplementation from other sources should help with that.

EL -- ADVISABLE. Reviewer: Caryn

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