Children’s / Teenage general interest: History and the past

Book SynopsisGet to Know the Presidents! Ever wonder what the U.S. presidents were really like? Just like the rest of us, our nation's leaders got into scrapes as kids, shared happy times with their families, had interesting hobbies, and romped with their pets. Now you can discover interesting facts about the lives of the presidents that will surprise you.Table of ContentsGeorge Washington. John Adams. Thomas Jefferson. James Madison. James Monroe. John Quincy Adams. Andrew Jackson. Martin VanBuren. William Henry Harrison. John Tyler. James Knox Polk. Zachary Taylor. Millard Fillmore. Franklin Pierce. James Buchanan. Abraham Lincoln. Andrew Johnson. Ulysses Simpson Grant. Rutherford Birchard Hayes. James Abram Garfield. Chester Alan Arthur. Grover Cleveland. Benjamin Harrison. William McKinley. Theodore Roosevelt. William Howard Taft. Woodrow Wilson. Warren Gamaliel Harding. Calvin Coolidge. Herbert Clark Hoover. Franklin Delano Roosevelt. Harry S. Truman. Dwight David Eisenhower. John Fitzgerald Kennedy. Lyndon Baines Johnson. Richard Milhouse Nixon. Gerald Rudolph Ford. James Earl Carter, Jr. Ronald Wilson Reagan. George Herbert Walker Bush. William Jefferson Clinton. Suggested Readings. Index.

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Book SynopsisThe year is 50 AD and Galilee is THE place to be. This handy guide will show you the must-sees, the history, the bargain buys, and more.Table of ContentsContents Welcome to the Land of Jesus!Putting Galilee on the Map 4Useful Information 6Getting There 8Who Was Jesus? 10Exploring GalileeNazareth 12Capernaum 16Capernaum’s Waterfront 18Jesus at Lake Galilee 20Hiking from Nazareth to Capernaum 22Day One: Nazareth to Cana 22Vineyard Tour around Cana 24Day Two: Over the Hills 26A Remote Night 28Day Three: Where Jesus Taught 30 Beyond GalileeCaesarea Philippi and Mount Hermon 32Samaria 34Bethany on the River Jordan 36Jericho 38In and Around JerusalemApproaching Jerusalem 42Jerusalem 44The Temple 46The Antonia Fortress and theCity Walls 48Festivals 50The Mount of Olives 52Day Trip to Bethlehem 54Day Trip to Bethany 56Where Next? 58Index 60

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Book SynopsisNo one had ever seen anything like the Influenza Pandemic of 1918-1919. Before the deadly disease ran its course in 1919, more American soldiers died from the flu than in combat, more than one-fifth of the world's population was infected, and as many as 100 million people worldwide died from the disease that caused a devastating pandemic.

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Book SynopsisThrough extensive archival research and a systematic study of sample programs from Sesame Street's first ten seasons, Morrow tells the story of Sesame Street's creation; the ideas, techniques, organization, and funding behind it; its place in public discourse; and its ultimate and unfortunate failure as an agent of commercial television reform.Trade ReviewAn insightful look at American children's television. Library Journal 2005 [An] accessible, well-researched introduction to the people and principles behind the show's creation... Essential. Choice 2006 Any student of film, television, sociology and American history will find it intriguing and educational. California Bookwatch 2006 Morrow's engaging and straightforward book takes us back to that moment in the late 1960s when Sesame Street struggled into existence, and when programming was not yet brought to us by the letter 'S.' -- Nicholas Sammond American Historical Review 2007 Reading Morrow's account of the complex and discordant early years of Sesame Street was like reading the biography of a childhood friend. Journal of Broadcasting and Electronic Media 2008Table of ContentsPrefaceIntroduction1. The Problem of Television and the Child Viewer2. The Preschool Moment3. "A New Bloom on the Wasteland"4. The CTW Model5. "The Itty Bitty Little Kiddy Show"6. "Hope for a More Substantive Future"7. "The Verdict on SESAME STREET"Conclusion: The Many Faces of SESAME STREETNotesEssay on SourcesIndex

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Book SynopsisPresents a a remarkable story for young readers about women workers during World War II. At this time in history, women began working jobs that had previously been performed only by men. Across America, women produced everything from ships and tanks, to ammunition and uniforms, in spectacular quantities.

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"Bowen’s moody, saturated illustrations of layered landscapes and historical journals add heft to the text’s implicit message that the natural world is something more than a measurable commodity."—Publishers Weekly, starred review"One of the pleasures of reading is finding out about a subject you’ve never heard of. Who knew there are forests in Minnesota untouched by loggers, trees that tower because they were overlooked by surveyors mapping out areas more than 200 years ago? You’ll learn the reasons why when you read “The Lost Forest” by Phyllis Root."—Newsbee"The Lost Forest written by Phyllis Root and illustrated by Betsy Bowen tells with humor and fascinating descriptions, an important environmental story."—The Pirate Tree"The powerhouse duo of Betsy Bowen and Phyllis Root team up again, writing about nature and science in a gorgeous and accessible way."—Star Tribune

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Book SynopsisEddie Rickenbacker survived personal tragedies and dozens of close calls as a mechanic, a race car driver, a fighter pilot, and airline executive. This biography invites young readers to consider the difference between recklessness and courage, even if both present dangers, and the enduring value of hard work and personal responsibility.Trade Review“A fast-paced, white-knuckle thrill ride from start to finish, Speno’s book takes young readers from the racetracks of the Indy 500 to the bullet-riddled skies of World War I, bringing them along on the exciting, action-packed journey of one of America’s greatest war heroes.”“Full of cars, races, and airplane adventures, this biography of Eddie Rickenbacker is sure to appeal to readers who love everything speedy. Never mind that the WWI ace was born in the nineteenth century, there’s nothing dusty about this chapter book, part of the Biographies for Young Readers series….A story of initiative, this is more substantial than the Who Was? Series, making it a good stepping stone from those beginner bios to longer nonfiction works.” * Booklist *“Drawing on Rickenbacker’s ghostwritten memoir and contemporaneous accounts, Speno takes readers from adventure to adventure even as Rickenbacker helmed Eastern Air Lines between the wars before returning to service with the Army Air Forces during World War II. Did You Know? featurettes conclude each chapter, offering tidbits of related trivia, and callout boxes provide context when necessary. Numerous archival photographs depict the White ace in dashing poses throughout. A lively chronicle of a colorful, exciting, risk-filled life.” * Kirkus Reviews *

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Book SynopsisIlan Ramon was a bold fighter pilot, Air Force colonel in the Israeli army, and payload specialist on the Space Shuttle Columbia. He was a role model for many young Israelis. Young readers will be captivated by this biography - with its rich portrait of Ramon in words and photographs - it celebrates the life of an extraordinary man and pays tribute to his enormous courage.Trade Review"This is an engrossing biography."—Association of Jewish Libraries Newsletter"Certain to inspire reverence and admiration for this fallen hero."—Hadassah Magazine"This is an engaging, informative, and highly recommended biography that showcases the personal story of a courageous combat pilot, astronaut, devoted husband, and father."—Midwest Book Review

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Book SynopsisA young adult biography that focuses on Einstein as a great Jewish thinker and champion of Israel. It explores the story of Albert Einstein's connection to his Jewish roots and the growth of his commitment to the creation of the State of Israel.Trade Review"Among the numerous biographies of Einstein on library shelves, Speregen's book will stand out because of its focus on 'the Jewish man behind the theory.'"—Association of Jewish Libraries Newsletter

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Book SynopsisWritten for young children, Delhi Thaatha is a biography of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, a much-loved teacher and world-renowned philosopher who served as the first vice president of the Republic of India, then, beginning in 1962, president of the country.

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Book Synopsis*CBC/NCSS Notable Social Studies Trade Book* What do Napoleon, Cleopatra, George Washington, Gandhi, Queen Victoria, Columbus, Neil Armstrong, Montezuma, Paul Revere, Babe Ruth, Abraham Lincoln, Sacagawea, and Katsushika Hokusai have in common?Trade Review"2–5—This charming and ambitious selection unites unlikely figures such as Babe Ruth, Queen Victoria, Cleopatra, and Neil Armstrong through the food they enjoyed. Each chapter consists of a spread made up of an amusing watercolor caricature and two blocks of text. Sixteen figures from different time periods are profiled in this slim volume. "Dining with da Vinci" and "A Napkin for Napoleon" are two examples of the alliterative chapter headings. Humor and historical information abound in this impressively researched work that contains substantial back matter for those still hungry for more facts, including even a pandowdy recipe. VERDICT Savor this approach to food history—it's a real treat!" -- Gloria Koster, West School, New Canaan, CT - School Library Journal" A tempting tasting platter of foods and eating customs in diverse times and places...Along with observations that Cleopatra would have been served stork, that Napoleon was a messy eater, and like tidbits, readers will come away with some significant morsels of history, such as the role Columbus played in introducing avocados, corn, and beans to Europe and oranges, coffee, and sugar cane to North and South America. Along with a generous dollop of further reading (for adults), the final section dishes up more detail about each of the distinguished diners plus a timeline strewn with factual croutons from the publication of the first printed cookbook (1465) to the introduction of Lunchables. Not so much a history of food as history with food—a way of adding a bit of spice to general studies of the past. " -- Kirkus Reviews"Here’s an upbeat look at 16 significant historical figures through a colorful thematic lens: food. Yes, they all ate, but each had a different diet depending on available ingredients, customs of their times, and personal needs and preferences. Readers will learn that Cleopatra regarded pickles as a beauty enhancer,that Lincoln was very fond of apples in pandowdy and other dishes, and that Gandhi used fasting as a means of protesting injustice and bringing about change. Each individual is presented on a double-page spread including a few paragraphs of biographical and food-related information as well as a small-print, first-person section written from the biographee’s point of view. About half the space is devoted to colorful and often humorous line-and-wash caricatures. The back matter includes a recipe for “A Nice Pandowdy.” Consider this book more of an appetizer or a side dish than a main course, as kids may sometimes lack the background knowledge to understand the historical context. An entertaining addition to history collections." -- Carolyn Phelan - Booklist" This book is about sixteen famous people and what they ate and how they ate. George Washington only had one tooth left by the time he was president. Babe Ruth ate a lot of hot dogs. Napoleon ate sloppily. Paul Revere ate lots of pudding. Hokusai ate a lot of rice. Neil Armstrong squirted water into food pouches when he was in space. I don’t like Christopher Columbus. He enslaved people. He brought corn, avocados, and guavas to Europe. Tasters in Europe made sure the foods he brought weren’t poison. (They must have had a lot of tasters.) In the back of the book, there is a timeline and more information about the famous people. There is a recipe in the book for pandowdy. Abe Lincoln liked pandowdy. It has apples. I like the drawings. I learned a lot. I didn’t know Napoleon ate messily. I didn’t know who Moctezuma was. I didn’t know George Washington cracked walnuts open with his teeth. Cleopatra made her own lipstick by crushing ants and beetles. Queen Victoria’s underwear sold for $18,000 at an auction. (I wonder who bought it.) I’ll read this book again in the future. " -- Reviewed By: Nishaant - Age 8 - Kid's Book Buzz"...a thoroughly entertaining, informative, and down right delightful book ... Just like us, the great movers and shakers of history had to eat, and their favorite foods turn out to be a highly entertaining thread to follow through the history of our small planet. History and biography have never been this tasty! ... Especially appropriate for young readers ages 8 to 11, "Pass The Pandowdy, Please" is enthusiastically recommended for family, elementary school and community library collections." -- Diane Donovan, Editor - The Midwest Book Review

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Book SynopsisStarred Youth Services Book Review What do the Trojan Horse, Piltdown Man, Keely Motor Company, and Ponzi Scheme have in common? They were all famous hoaxes, carefully designed and bolstered with false evidence.Trade Review"This highly entertaining and unusual book takes a fresh and sophisticated approach to world history. Brief but informative sections detail hoaxes and unsolved mysteries from ancient times to the present, and from the familiar (the Trojan Horse) to the more obscure (the 1971 discovery of alleged Stone Age tribe the Tasaday). A fascinating read for high schoolers and adults. Extensive source notes are appended. Glos., ind. Subjects: General and World History; Swindlers and swindling; Hoaxes; Behavior—Truthfulness and falsehood" -- Horn Book"The hoaxes here are colorful by far. Eaton doesn't sensationalize them; the stories [are] allowed to speak for themselves, and they display great grip. There is a hoax for every mood: cheat, propaganda, assault, cruelty, inventions of merit, a more nuanced appreciation of art, and marvel. We have met the hoaxsters, and they are us: family stories, human progress, and often enough the pinball nature of our history." -- Kirkus"In a broad-ranging and fascinating study of artifice, Eaton raises intriguing questions about human instincts, especially the ones to deceive and believe. Simultaneously available: A History of Travel in 50 Vehicles. Ages 12–up." -- Publishers Weekly

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Book SynopsisIf walls could talk, what would they say? Perhaps they would tell us who built them and why. Maybe they could even tell us about people's lives today or about how our ancestors lived thousands of years ago.Trade Review" If You Build It… Introduce readers to different cultures by exploring the stories of walls around the world and how they can separate communities or hold them together. " -- Learning Magazine"Links to social studies abound. A great read-aloud and a unique source of hard-to-find material." -- School Library Journal"An unusually attractive book that wisely allows readers to draw their own conclusions." -- Kirkus Reviews"Knight has found a powerful theme for introducing children to the world and its diverse cultures." -- Booklist starred review

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Book SynopsisIt is December 8, 1941, the day after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, and President Franklin Delano Roosevelt leads a nation in crisis.Trade Review" A study in contrasts featuring two of America's most renowned citizens...comparing the divergent career paths of its (putative) two riders may give readers food for thought. (timeline, bibliography) (Picture book/biography. 10-12) " -- Kirkus Reviews

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Book SynopsisMore than 99 percent of all life forms have gone extinct during the 3.6-billion-year history of life on Earth. Other organisms have changed dramatically, but not our extreme survivors. Evolution may have altered their physiology and behavior, but their body plans have stood the test of time. How have these living links with Earth's prehistoric past survived? The search for answers is leading scientists to new discoveries about the pastand futureof life on Earth. The survival secrets of some of these ancient creatures could lead to new medicines and treatments for disease. Written in a lively, entertaining voice, Extreme Survivors provides detailed life histories and strange survival secrets of ten ancient animals and explains evolution and natural selection. Extensive back matter includes glossary, additional facts and geographic range for each organism and a geologic timeline of Earth. F&P Level VTrade Review"Ten creatures that make the dinosaurs look like newcomers. Properly noting that evolution works continuously on all life, Ridley profiles multicell animals that have nonetheless really withstood the test of time without major alteration. These include the lizard like tuatara (200 million years), the hardy lungfish (300 million years), sponges (600 million years), and possibly even more ancient comb jellies: "among the earliest animals to have…a butt." Winning close-ups of a roly-poly tardigrade (530 million years) and luridly snaggle-toothed goblin sharks (125 million years) lead off a spectacular suite of photos to which the author adds pithy descriptive comments and reflections on evolutionary processes, plus insights into just how these survivalists might have endured when 99 percent of all other life forms have gone extinct. Humans (200,000 years), represented here by a picture of a racially diverse group of children, are a long way from demonstrating similar longevity. Perspective-building intros to some of our most ancient relatives. (timeline, summary facts, glossary, further reading) (Nonfiction. 10-13) " -- Kirkus"Clear and concise enough for even non-science-whizzes to follow." -- Booklist"Award-winning author Kimberly Ridley presents Extreme Survivors: Animals that Time Forgot, a hardcover nonfiction title introducing young readers to strange and wondrous animal species that have avoided extinction for millions of years. Since they closely resemble their ancestors, they offer modern scientists' clues to what life was like in the distant past. Striking, full-color photography offers an up-close and personal glimpse of animals such as the lungfish, the microscopic tardigrade, the chambered nautilus, the ferocious goblin shark, the New Zealand tuatara (closest living cousin of the dinosaurs), and much more. Highly recommended, especially for school and public library children's nonfiction collections." -- Diane Donovan, Editor - Children's Book Watch

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Book SynopsisCivilization rearranges nature for human convenience. Clothes and houses keep us warm; agriculture feeds us; medicine fights our diseases. It all worksmost of the time. But key resources lie in the most hazardous places, so we choose to live on river flood plains, on the slopes of volcanoes, at the edge of the sea, above seismic faults. We pack ourselves into cities, Petri dishes for germs. Civilization thrives on the edge of disaster. And what happens when natural forces meet molasses holding tanks, insecticides, deepwater oil rigs, nuclear power plants? We learn the hard way how to avoid the last disasterand maybe how to create the next one. What we don't know can, indeed, hurt us. This book's white-knuckled journey from antiquity to the present leads us to wonder at times how humankind has survived. And yet, as Author Gale Eaton makes clear, civilization has advanced not just in spite of disasters but in part because of them. Hats off to human resilience, ingenuity, and perseveranTrade Review"Lest readers get preoccupied by body counts and deciding which disaster was the worst, the real lessons to be derived are discussed in a brief conclusion. What's most important is how people responded to the disasters: some people became heroes, some organized relief efforts, some looted, some blamed others, and some got to work trying to prevent future disasters. ... A fascinating volume especially suited for browsing. (glossary, sources and additional resources, endnotes, index)" -- Kirkus"When given the choice of which book to review, the title of this one stood out to me. I live in Oregon, and right now there is an increasing risk of earthquakes, volcanoes and tsunamis in the state. If it’s going to happen I might as well know what to do. (I guess it also counts as studying world history.) The author did a fantastic job of compiling information and photographs to support the main event of each chapter. It was interesting that several of the events I had never even heard of. The book showed me that government tended to blame foreigners or minorities for the disasters, even when sometimes it was unknowingly of their own doing. Another thing that surprised me was that the disasters that took more lives were not volcanoes or earthquakes. More often than not, it was sickness, or an outbreak of a disease. (The Bubonic Plague, for example, killed about 1/3 of Europe’s population.) When the volcanoes and earthquakes did happen, they usually gave weeks or even months of warning, and the most damage happened when people did not evacuate. (That’s one piece of information I can use! When they tell me to evacuate, I will!) I really enjoyed this book and I hope other readers will, too. I would recommend it for ages 12 and up. It can also be used as a teaching resource in a classroom. " -- Owen McCoy, 13, homeschooler - Skipping Stones"Critique: A novel and effective way to for students and non-specialist general readers with an interest in how civilizations were stimulated to evolve in response to traumatic, unexpected, and often horrific disasters, "A History of Civilization in 50 Disasters" is a compelling read that is as informed and informative as it is thoughtful and thought-provoking. Thoroughly 'reader friendly' in tone, content, organization, and presentation, "A History of Civilization in 50 Disasters" is very strongly recommended for both community and academic library World History reference collections and supplemental studies reading lists. Of immense interest to student and non-specialist general readers with an interest in history" -- John Taylor - The Midwest Book Review

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Book Synopsis*Junior Library Guild Selection 2017* A unanimous selection to the 2018 Maverick Graphic Novel List! This graphic retelling of the Apollo 11 moon-landing mission follows astronaut Michael Collins, commander of the lunar orbiter, to the far side of the moon.Trade Review"While Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin are household names, “the only thing most people know about Michael Collins is that he didn’t get to walk on the moon.” Irvine and Bishop aim to remedy that with this graphic biography, which traces Collins’s upbringing and NASA career through his selection for the Apollo 11 mission and his life afterward. Bishop works in a rough, schematic style, and his liberal use of swaths of black, accented with violet, makes the vastness of space felt in nearly every panel." -- PW" The Far Side of the Moon is a black-and-white nonfiction graphic novel about astronaut Michael Collins and the historic Apollo 11 moon-landing mission of 1969. The stark, visually striking artwork captures the loneliness and dangers of space travel. Readers of all ages will find The Far Side of the Moon a captivating and inspirational true story not only of scientific history, but also of human fortitude and ingenuity. Highly recommended, especially for high school and public library graphic novel collections. " -- Library Bookwatch

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"Starred Review "An exceptional STEAM title."" -- Angela Leeper - Booklist"Read this as a picture book, to spark discussion, or use it to expand options for biography assignments in elementary schools. There’s great potential in this story. VERDICT Beautiful, informative, and fascinating, this is a great addition to school and public library biography collections. Recommended. " -- School Library Journal"If you build it, they will marvel... This charming homage is a resounding tribute to immigrants' contributions. The text is narrated by Rafael in a proud, awestruck voice that makes both characters and their work come alive. A pictorial guide to the important architectural terms readers will encounter prefaces the book. Many of the lively, colorful, appealing illustrations prominently display tiled arches... A firm foundation for building interest in architecture and a solid STEM resource." -- Kirkus Reviews"An esoteric architectural detail—the Guastavino vault—anchors this chatty, information-dense biography. In first-person narration, the authors share the story of Rafael Guastavino Moreno through his son, Rafael Guastavino Expósito. After the pair emigrated to the U.S. from Spain in 1881, the elder Guastavino “patented tiled vaults and domes as a fireproof construction system” (at the time, “fires were common in America’s growing cities”). Engaging the same concepts used in pizza and bread ovens, the Guastavino vault proved enormously successful, and “the Guastavino Fireproof Construction Company... built curved ceilings in more than one thousand buildings.” (Though many were demolished, vaults survive in Grand Central Terminal and the main hall at Ellis Island, among other locations.) Through a fluke of fate, an architecture professor rescued the company’s drawings from a dumpster, thereby ensuring the Guastavino legacy. Lorente’s retro-mod illustrations, washed in teal, yellow, and rust, portray undulating tiled vaults, grand spaces, and dapper architects at work. Ages 8–up." -- Publishers Weekly

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Book SynopsisRafael Guastavino Sr. was 39 when he left a successful career as an architect in Barcelona. American citiesdensely packed and built largely of woodwere experiencing horrific fires and Guastavino had the solution: The soaring interior spaces created by his tiled vaults and domes made buildings sturdier, fireproof and beautiful. What he didn't have was fluent English. Unable to win design commissions, he transferred control of the company to his American-educated son, whose subsequent half-century of inspired design work resulted in major contributions to the built environment of America. Immigrant Architect is an introduction to architectural concepts and a timely reminder of immigrant contributions to America. The book includes four route maps for visiting Guastavino-designed spaces in New York City: uptown, midtown, downtown and Prospect Park.

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Book SynopsisBig lies are told by governments, politicians, and corporations to avoid responsibility, cast blame on the innocent, win elections, disguise intent, create chaos, and gain power and wealth. Big lies are as old as civilization. They corrupt public understanding and discourse, turn science upside down, and reinvent history. They prevent humanity from addressing critical challenges. They perpetuate injustices. They destabilize the world. The modern age has provided ever-more-effective ways of spreading lies, but it has also given us the scientific method, which is the most effective tool for finding what is true. In the book's final chapter, Kurlansky reveals ways to deconstruct an allegation. A scientific theory has to be testable, and so does an allegation. BIG LIES soars across history: alighting on the noble lies of Socrates and Plato; Nero blaming Christians for the burning of Rome; the great injustices of the Middle Ages; the big lies of Stalin and Hitler and their terrible consTrade Review"This well-researched book offers examples of philosophers and religious leaders commenting on lying as well as politicians and advertisers manipulating others for personal gain. Kurlansky writes persuasively about the danger of big, outrageous lies that can have horrific consequences. He points out that those lies have become more common and more easily spread since the advent of social media, but the lies themselves have changed little through the centuries. The text is detailed, well organized, and relevant to our times. Kurlansky does a particularly fine job of placing disturbing recent trends within a historical context. Many books advise young people on recognizing propaganda techniques, but this one offers a particularly broad view of how and why political leaders, hucksters, and others with personal or political agendas lie, how technological changes have magnified the lies’ effectiveness, and how critical thinking skills enable people to recognize the big lies that can threaten a free society." -- Booklist"Starred Review: In this noteworthy guide to media literacy, Kurlansky (Bugs in Danger) details events occurring over the past 300 years to break down the “big lies” that permeate global history and explore how they affect the current U.S. media landscape. Positing that the “explosion of social media seems to have ushered us into a new age of lying,” the author explains that though current technology makes it easier and faster to spread misinformation, it’s not wholly responsible for the rise of false ideas, and that “most of the lies themselves aren’t new.” Using examples throughout history, such as the Salem witch trials, Stalin’s and Hitler’s anti-Semitic rhetoric, and the Turkish denial of the Armenian genocide, Kurlansky breaks down how politicians have repeatedly used propaganda and misinformation to control public perception, and offers a checklist for differentiating fact from fiction. Zelz’s (My Monster Moofy) emotive, full-color art depicts humorous caricature portraits of historic thinkers, including Isaac Newton and Charles Darwin, and distills ideas presented throughout the narrative via comics spreads at chapters’ end. Employing conversational prose, cohesive timelines, and digestible examples, the creators encourage readers to think critically, citing that a “lack of caring what is true or false is the undoing of democracy.” Ages 13–up." -- Publishers Weekly"BIG LIES - STARRED REVIEW Impassioned, thorough, and brilliant: describes the struggle for truth that “keeps the world from descending into chaos”. Deceit, says noted nonfiction writer Kurlansky, is practiced throughout the living world, often conferring evolutionary advantages, and certainly many social ones—consider the white lie. Three hundred years ago, the rise of the Enlightenment ushered in both a new era of scientific reason and a corresponding rise in lies and conspiracy theories promulgated by power-hungry individuals attempting to dupe the masses. Today’s social media makes this ever more prevalent but also gives those who pay attention tools they can use to broadcast the truth. From murderous clowns to lizard people in government, burning women as witches to persistent scapegoating of Jews, Kurlansky covers the types, tools, targets, tactics, and motives of liars as well as arms readers with defensive techniques such as searching for sources and the classic advice to “follow the money.” Supplemental stories are told in sidebars set off in orange type. Blocks of larger, colorful type break up the pages, as do occasional illustrations and photographs. Short comic-strip segments enliven the ends of each chapter, illustrating Soviet spies sowing anti-vaccine disinformation and showing a dishonest, bankrupt real estate investor denying climate change. This book takes on a dense and complicated subject; Kurlansky’s genius is to embrace the complexity and urge readers to question everything they read, including this book. (photo credits, author’s note, sources, index) (Nonfiction. 12-18) " -- KirkusTable of ContentsEntreaty 1. Masked Revelers in a Carnival of Lies From Russia with Love, Part 1 2. The Enlightenment and the Unenlightened From Russia with Love, Part 2 3. Denial: The Short Way around Science From Russia with Love, Part 3 4. Favorite Lies About Women From Russia with Love, Part 4 5. A Snowball in France: The Blame Game From Russia with Love, Part 5 6. Soviet Mathematics: 2 + 2 = 5 7. The Truth about American Truth 8. Big Dictators and Big Lies The Prince of Real Estate, Part 1 9. Photographic Lies The Prince of Real Estate, Part 2 10. Saving Children: A Best-Loved Lie The Prince of Real Estate, Part 3 11. The Golden Lasso of Truth The Prince of Real Estate, Part 4 Sources Index Acknowledgments

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Book SynopsisSlow, sleepyand adorable. This playful and informative picture book follows the fascinating history of one of the world's most beloved animals

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Book SynopsisFrom the best-selling author behind My Weird School: a quirky new biography series that casts fresh light on high-interest historic figures.

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Book SynopsisFrom the best-selling author of My Weird School: a new entry in the hilarious biography series that casts fresh light on high-interest historic figures.

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Book SynopsisAward-winning author Kao Kalia Yang delivers an inspiring tale of resourceful children confronting adversaries in a refugee camp After lunch the Yang warriors prepare for battle. They practice drills, balance rocks on their heads, wield magical swords from fallen branches. Led by ten-year-old Master Me (whose name means “little”), the ten cousins are ready to defend the family at all costs. After a week without fresh vegetables , the warriors embark on a dangerous mission to look for food, leaving the camp’s boundaries, knowing their punishment would be severe if they were caught by the guards. In this inspiring picture book, fierce and determined children confront the hardships of Ban Vinai refugee camp, where the author lived as a child. Yang’s older sister, seven-year-old Dawb, was one of the story’s warriors, and her brave adventure unfolds here with all the suspense and excitement that held her five-year-old sister spellbound many years later. Accompanied by the evocative and rich cultural imagery of debut illustrator Billy Thao, the warriors’ secret mission shows what feats of compassion and courage children can perform, bringing more than foraged greens back to the younger children and to their elders. In this unforgiving place, with little to call their own, these children are the heroes, offering gifts of hope and belonging in a truly unforgettable way. Trade Review"Yang Warriors entranced me from start to finish. Kao Kalia Yang reminds us that children can be just as brave, steadfast, and pure of heart as any adult. This tale of hope and resilience will inspire young warriors everywhere."—Christina Soontornvat, author of All Thirteen: The Incredible Cave Rescue of the Thai Boys' Soccer Team"These children are not warriors in violence or ferocity, or even strength or speed, but rather by way of their purposeful, determined, courageous compassion. The lessons in this book are not for children so much as from them, and I remain grateful to Master Me and his tiny band of heart warriors for this demonstration of love in action."—Liz Garton Scanlon, author of All the World"Yang Warriors is a gentle reminder that superheroes come in all shapes and sizes. A moving and powerful story of the hope and resilience of a Hmong family."—Carole Lindstrom, author of We Are Water Protectors"The illustrations are by a Hmong American who researched and achieved a style that fits beautifully and enhances the text. The gentle images use vibrant colors and a mystical touch."—Martha’s Bookshelf "While the book takes place in a specific refugee camp, its circumstances help both children and adults understand the dire situations of such camps housing millions around the world today. Intended for elementary-aged children, it can teach us all."—Lake Superior Magazine"A powerful tale about finding purpose and strength in the face of extreme adversity."—Kirkus Reviews "A breathtaking book."—Star Tribune "As the author writes, they ‘risked everything for something better,’ and they show us that the bravery of children can be as inspiring as that of adults."—Booklist"Yang uses simple but evocative language to tell her story, full of sensorial details, which the illustrations reinforce."—Youth Services Book Review "Yang Warriors by Kao Kalia Yang and illustrated by Billy Thao has so much to love. Starting with the fact that it shows that fierce, determined, compassionate — and of course committed — children can be heroes too... The reviews describe the hope, resilience and inspiration this story holds, while offering an excellent history lesson that isn’t often covered in elementary school history classes."—Cool Mom Picks"Kao Kalia Yang has put the perfect words together to whisk readers back in time right into her memories."— Reading Through Life"A breathtaking book, all the more impressive because the story it tells is true. "—Daily Register"Uplifting, powerful, and well told."—The Reading Tub "In this inspiring picture book, fierce and determined children confront the hardships of Ban Vinai refugee camp, where the author lived as a child. "—Tanja Bauerle"Yang captivates with wonderful imagery, evoking emotions for the reader parallel to the characters’ own experiences. "—Rochester Post-Bulletin "A tale of child heroes in a Hmong refugee camp that is worth cheering for."—Walking Brain Cells "A book that is rich with discussion points, not just about life in a camp, but also the importance of familial relationships, advocacy, and community support."—The Tiny Activist"The heartfelt, inspiring book, Yang Warriors, takes us on this journey through the eyes of award-winning author Kao Kalia Yang with illustration by Billy Thao."—International Examiner

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Book SynopsisFirst published in 1968, this engrossing and beautiful picture book about wildlife on Isle Royale is available again Isle Royale, “the big island” of this book, is a wilderness national park in Lake Superior and home to a unique and fascinating ecosystem of animals, most notably the iconic wolf and majestic moose. Here is author Julian May’s story about the island’s beginning, the kinds of animals that came to populate it, and their effects on the pristine landscape. Among them were the moose, who swam to the island from the distant shore to fend off starvation. The moose found conditions on Isle Royale so favorable that they reproduced quickly—but then faced another food shortage. The wolves arrived by floating to the island on an ice floe in winter and soon became important to the island’s ecology as successful predators of the moose. Complementing this fascinating text, John Schoenherr’s magnificent illustrations convey the strength of these animals and the beauty of the island that is their home.First published in 1968, and reprinted here with a new note by renowned wolf expert L. David Mech, The Big Island is an enchanting introduction to the wilderness and wildlife of Isle Royale.

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Book SynopsisTroublemakers and Superpowers is filled with hopeful stories that explore the lives of 29 individuals from diverse backgrounds who have had to navigate a “troublemaker” in their childhood, such as trauma, depression, ADHD, OCD, anxiety, or dyslexia. Each of these individuals had a turning point in their life that enabled them to understand not only their struggles but also their strengths and ultimately learn how to use them to go after their dreams. This biography collection includes stories of people from all walks of life. Did you know… Greta Thunberg used the strengths she discovered with her Asperger’s Syndrome to start a climate revolution. Jonathan Van Ness’s (JVN) struggle with childhood trauma and depression pushed him to learn self-love. Ed Sheeran overcame a stutter with the help of music. Emma Stone struggles with anxiety and discovered acting helps her manage her condition. Trevor Noah grew up in South Africa navigating the strict rules of apartheid, the inflexible traditions of catholic school, and being a kid with undiagnosed ADHD. Discovering stand-up enabled him to turn his fascinating life story into comedy. Dr. Maggie Aderin-Pocock struggled with dyslexia then discovered the benefits of her condition – good 3D spatial awareness – were ideal for a career as a space scientist. Each profile includes a full-page illustrated portrait, and three pages devoted to the subject’s inspiring story that is interwoven with vibrant, playful art and illustrated quotes that highlight significant moments in each subject's story. The book also includes: A foreword for kids and an afterword for adults written by a licensed therapist to provide a mental health context for readers. Definitions of the variety of conditions, disorders, and traumas covered in the book, vetted by mental health experts. A list of resources on topics covered in the book. The incredible stories of the individuals in this book are filled with hope and inspiration for kids, ages 8 and up, who are struggling with challenges in their lives, as well as for kids who love biographies. Troublemakers and Superpowers will give all readers a better understanding of what it's like to grow up with 'troublemakers' and how they can be seen as 'superpowers.'Trade Review"Troublemakers and Superpowers is a refreshing and positive exploration of the way that disability, trauma, and adversity can shape identity in positive ways."—Children's Book Review"Perfect as a read aloud and as a basis for a classroom or home discussion. Highly recommended!"—Greg Pattridge, Always in the Middle

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Book SynopsisWhen John Erickson, author of the Hank the Cowdog book series, saved up and purchased a tract of Panhandle property near Perryton, it set off a chain of discovery. Who lived in Texas over a thousand years ago? In Porch Talk, John Erickson and his archaeologist friend Doug Boyd investigate this question while explaining the art and science of archaeology for middle readers. On the Perryton ranch, John and his friends unearthed a ghost town that dated back to around 1300 CE. They found a sprawl of widely spaced pit houses occupying an area of 300 acres in John's West Pasture. It is unclear how many people lived there, but it was a place where babies were born and the elderly died and were buried. Women nursed children, made cornmeal in stone metates, and stitched clothes of leather while the men hunted bison using arrows tipped with points made from Alibates flint.Porch Talk features the kind of conversation John and Doug might have on the porch after a day of work in the field. For more than twenty years, they worked together on this and other prehistoric sites, sharing a fascination for the ancient people who occupied the area. How did these people work, play, and survive?Any person today who picks up Porch Talk, young or old, will learn about archaeology, prehistoric Texas, and the importance of taking care of the land. The conversation will ignite your curiosity and make you aware of the brave and sturdy people who occupied this land long ago.

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Book SynopsisGreat Lives in Graphics reimagines the lives of extraordinary people in vivid technicolour, presenting 250+ fascinating facts in a new and exciting way. You may already know that Anne Frank wrote a diary, but did you know she had a pet cat called Moortje? Or that another cat called Mouschi lived with her in hiding? This graphic retelling of Anne's story gives children a visual snapshot of her life and the world she grew up in, while educating them on everything from World War II to the dangers of prejudice. The ‘Great Lives in Graphics’ series is a new way of looking at the lives of famous and influential people. It takes the essential dates and achievements of each person’s life, mixes them with lesser-known facts and trivia and uses infographics to show them in a fresh, visual way that is genuinely engaging for children and young adults. The result is a colourful, fascinating and often surprising representation of that person’s life, work and legacy. Using timelines, maps, repeated motifs and many more beautiful and informative illustrations, readers learn not just about the main subject of the book, but also about the cultural background of the time in which that person lived. • A genuinely engaging way to explore great lives • Aimed at children and young adults aged 8 to 12 • Conveys the life of a notable figure in an accessible and fun way • Fact-packed infographics capture the key information about each person’s life and work • Builds into a colour-coded library of collectible biographies • Instant, fun, striking and enjoyable to dip into • Always educational, but also surprising. Each book includes 15 spreads, all of which feature an introductory paragraph and a visual concept. There are a few set concepts in each book: Introduction – an inspirational overview of their life, highlighting obstacles faced and the tenacity required to overcome them. Timeline spread – charting their life from birth to death and including major world events, putting their story in historical context. Family outline – early family life and experiences in education, relating them to similar questions and challenges children face today. Geographical overview – map showing the important places that feature in their lives, for example where they were born, worked, lived and died. Glossary – helping children to expand their vocabulary. Information is presented as visually as possible, be it a set of numbers or even a single number expressed with repeated icons. ‘Versus’ spreads highlight anything that compares and contrasts. ‘Did You Know’ facts, definition boxes and inspiring quotes accompany each spread.

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Book SynopsisFactology: Romans is a fact-packed introduction to this iconic time in history, presented in maps, timelines, diagrams and statistics. Did you know that a gladiator fight only ended when one of the combatants died or called for mercy? Travel through time to explore one of history’s most stupendous superpowers: Ancient Rome. They were mind-bogglingly mean and incredibly inventive at the same time. This visually stunning history guide takes readers on an adventure across the vast Roman empire, including their awesome architecture, wondrous waterways and legendary legions. Be shocked by their brutal treatment of barbarians and slaves. There are needy gods, evil emperors, stinky sewers, careening chariots and much more! Each volume in the Factology series provides a fast-paced and fun introduction to its subject, explaining key concepts and highlighting significant events in a manner that is clear, accessible and entertaining. The KS2 and KS3 school curriculum is consulted when devising each volume, to ensure that the books cover important educational topics, making them a perfect teaching aid for learning history and STEM subjects.Table of ContentsRise of Rome 6 Legend of Romulus & Remus 8 Abduction of Sabine Women 10 The period of Kings 12 Republican Rome 14 Hail, Caesar! 16 Imperial Rome 18 Power play 20 Epic Emperors 22 Women behind the throne 24 The five good emperors 26 Eruption of Pompeii 28 Enemies of Rome 30 The fall of Rome 32 Eternal city 36 Brilliant builders 38 All roads lead to Rome 40 What a waste! 42 Milestones in Roman life 44 Teenage kicks 46 The role of women 48 Savage slavery 50 On the money 52 Let’s talk Latin 54 It all adds up 56 Join the feast 58 What’s up, doc? 60 Romans on the march 62 Ready for battle 64 Marine masters 66 The great Roman wall 68 Here come the gods 72 Roman gods fact files 1 74 Roman gods fact files 2 76 Are you there God? It’s me, Marcus 78 Meet the priests 80 Let the games begin 82 Close-up Colosseum 84 Enter... the gladiators! 88 Gladiator school 90 Roman quiz 92 Glossary & quiz answers 94 Index 96

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Book SynopsisDesigned for parents and elementary/middle grade students (grades 3-7) to share together, The Story of the World, Volume 3: Early Modern Times history set builds historical literacy, improves reading and comprehension skills in both fiction and nonfiction, and increases vocabulary--all in an enjoyable and entertaining story-like format. The Story of the World paperback text offers 42 narrative chapters, told in chronological order and spanning the entire globe, that begin with the Spanish colonization of South America and end with the Gold Rush. Independent readers can easily enjoy the stories on their own, or parents can read aloud to younger students. This newly revised edition includes improved maps, 40 new illustrations, and a timeline. The Volume 3 Activity Book offers a whole variety of hands-on projects to complement each chapter in the paperback text--map activities, coloring pages, games, cooking experiments, crafts, board games, science experiments, puzzles, and more! Extensive booklists, both fiction and nonfiction, accompany each set of projects and give parents and children the opportunity to read more about the fascinating people and events in each of the 42 chapters. Also newly revised, this edition has updated book recommendations, 42 brand new coloring pages, an increased focus on non-western and underrepresented peoples, and dozens of new illustrations, game boards, and more. The Volume 3 Test Book & Answer Key rounds out this history resource by providing simple tests and answer keys for each chapter in the text. A combination of multiple choice, matching, fill-in-the-blank, and short writing samples allow parents to evaluate the child’s comprehension, and gives young students a simple, low-pressure way to practice test-taking skills.

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Book SynopsisFeaturing historical figures from the Celtic warrior queen Boadicea to the brave firefighters of Chernobyl, and dramatic settings from the Roman Colosseum to the jungles of Haiti to the surface of the moon, this coloring book combines 30 brand-new coloring pages with 30 classic ones from the bestselling Story of the World Activity Books. Engaging descriptions of each coloring page give the historical context for Jeff West’s beautiful artwork. With the exciting moments and accurate detail that made The Story of the World so popular, Coloring the Story of the World is the perfect combination of fun and exploration for young readers & artists.

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Book SynopsisSUMMARY IN SPANISH: Mi familia es especial es un libro en españ ol para niñ os de 2 a 5 añ os que nos descubre la diversidad familiar. Espectaculares ilustraciones nos adentran en una historia protagonizada por muchos animales, con una tortuga centenaria que invita a sus amigos para la fiesta de su cumpleañ os, que resultan ser distintos tipos de familias: una familia tradicional, una familia numerosa, una familia monoparental, una familia juntada, una familia homoparental, una familia divorciada, una familia sin hijos y una familia adoptiva. Al final del libro se descubre que todas juntas forman la que la tortuga centenaria considera que es su familia. Ademá s, se puede jugar a encontrar una carta y un sobre en cada una de las ilustraciones. ¿ Conseguirá s encontrarlos? El texto está escrito en letra mayú scula, con lo que es ideal para niñ os a partir de 5 añ os que empiezan a leer. LIBRO ESCRITO ORIGINALMENTE EN ESPAñ OL._________________________________________SUMMARY IN ENGLISH: Mi familia es especial is a book in Spanish for children from 2 to 5 years old, that tells us about family diversity. Spectacular illustrations that lead us into a story starring many animals, with a hundred-year-old tortoise that invites her friends to her birthday party. Her friends end up being different types of families: a traditional family, a large family, a single parent family, a blended family, a homoparental family, a divorced family, a family without children and an adoptive family. At the end of the book, they discover that, all together, they form what the hundred-year-old tortoise considers to be her family. In addition, you can play a game to find a letter and an envelope in each one of the illustrations. Will you be able to find them? The text is written in upper case, which is ideal for children from the age of 5 years to start learning to read.ORIGINALLY WRITTEN IN SPANISH.

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Book SynopsisSUMMARY IN SPANISH: Descubre los animales es un libro infantil en espaÑol, pensado para niÑos de 2 a 6 aÑos, para descubrir quÉ animales se esconden bajo las solapas. En cada doble pÁgina hay animales distintos dibujados y en cada solapa hay una pequeÑa descripciÓn de uno de ellos. Los niÑos deberÁn pensar quÉ animal de todos los que aparecen dibujados puede ser y levantar la solapa para descubrir si han acertado. En cada pÁgina hay siete animales para descubrir. Se descubrirÁn animales: - De la granja - Del bosque - Del mar - De la selva - Con plumasTÍtulos de la colecciÓn: - Descubre los animales - Descubre la naturaleza - Descubre el espacio - Descubre los vehÍculosSUMMARY IN ENGLISH: Descubre los animales is a children's book in Spanish, designed for kids from 2 to 6 years old, to discover what animals are hidden under the flaps. On each double page there are different animals drawn and on each flap there is a short description of one of them. Kids will have to think about which animal of those that appear it could be and lift the flap to find out if they have got it right. There are seven animals hidden on each page. We will find animals: - From the farm - From the forest - From the sea - From the jungle - With feathersTitles in the collection: - Descubre los animales - Descubre la naturaleza - Descubre el espacio - Descubre los vehÍculos

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Book Synopsis

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Book Synopsis

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Book Synopsis

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Book Synopsis

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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