This history reader features selected stories about different types of pioneers in America's history. Each multi-chaptered story centers around a main character using an engaging, narrative style. For example, the first story is of Pedro and Catalina, two Spanish children, and their trip to St. Augustine (in what is now Florida) in the year 1565. Following this are stories, primarily told through the eyes of children, about pioneers from Holland, pioneers in Virginia, pioneers moving westward, and others. Stories have threads of patriotism and character building although, with the exception of a few statements, the book is not overtly Christian.
The book is targeted at third graders although some might need some assistance with reading. This is actually a good read aloud book that you could read with a wide age span of younger children because of the story format. It is illustrated in full color.
Stories are arranged into units of three stories each. At the conclusion of each unit are a number of extras to make this into more of an educational book. First is a page with drawings and explanations for topics like "How the pilgrims built their houses" or "How birch bark canoes were made." Next are questions that you should use for discussion. Finally, there is a "things to do" section with four or five suggestions for crafts, map work, an experiment, drawing, research, or writing—all are NOT included in each unit.
An optional test packet and answer key are also available.
