Gr 7 Up-Lepore provides a wealth of primary-source materials to describe the arrival of Europeans in the Americas. The result is an eye-opening look at the "discovery" of the New World. Chapters are grouped thematically, rather than chronologically. An introduction by the author sets the scene for each account, offering insight into the text that follows. The passages range from single paragraphs to a few pages in length. Sources are cited in an appendix. The letters, particularly those written by Native peoples, clearly show the contrast between European and Native American ideas and interpretation of events. A discussion of early religious conflicts includes an eloquent speech by the Iroquois leader Red Jacket, given in 1828. The account of a slave-ship captain who discusses his "cargo" of goods in a chillingly businesslike manner is another of the many powerful selections. The author is careful to point out that not all firsthand accounts are true, citing Christopher Columbus and Jacques Cartier as examples. Nearly every page features a black-and-white period reproduction, most with captions giving additional information. The chapter "Mapping the World" includes full-color reproductions of historical maps. In addition to offering valuable perspectives, this book will introduce readers to the challenges involved in understanding the past.-Steven Engelfried, Deschutes County Library, Bend, OR Copyright 2000 Cahners Business Information.|
"Students of American history will find plenty to chew on in this meaty, heavily illustrated entry in the new Pages from History series....Beginning with a full-color section, the pictures are...heavy on maps that chart the world's expansion in the European consciousness and including often fanciful scenes that in many cases are all that is left of vanished Native American cultures.... [Lepore] draws from a host of hard-to-find sources, and creates a ghastly, compelling picture of one of human history's pivotal moments."—Kirkus Reviews
"A wealth of primary source materials...an eye-opening look at the 'discovery' of the New World....Nearly every page features a black-and-white period reproduction, most with captions giving additional information...full-color reproductions of historical maps. In addition to offering valuable perspectives, this book will introduce readers to the challenges involved in understanding the past."—School Library Journal
"Presents primary source material—diaries, letters, maps, illustrations—and combines it with solid, in-depth examinations. Lepore provides essential background information and helps readers understand the context surrounding each document."—Horn Book
"The author does an excellent job of introducing these documents, filling in their historical context, and pointing out their salient features....This volume provides a balance to traditional texts by presenting the voices of people not often heard, who suffered from European colonization of the new world. Classroom discussions and individual reports will be enriched....Recommended."—Book Report
"Promises to be both useful and capable of holding student interest....Contains many clear, large, and easy-to-use charts, diagrams, and pictures. The sixteen-page map section is a delight that students will find fascinating....Well-edited and beautifully illustrated."—OAH Magazine of History
