Early American Studies

American history comes alive for young readers in this collection of richly detailed narratives ranging from Christopher Columbus to Abraham Lincoln. These “direct and surprisingly accessible” histories, often told in the actual words of key figures from the American past, are a brilliant blend of fact and imagination (Publishers Weekly).  I, Columbus: A firsthand account of Christopher Columbus’s famous voyage to the East, taken directly from his journal entries. He tells of excitement, drama, and terror on the high seas, as he and his crew weather the path to discovery.  Pilgrim Voices: The pilgrims’ own writings of their voyage on the Mayflower, their first encounters with indigenous people, and their Thanksgiving celebration after surviving a difficult first winter in the New World.  Off the Map: The story of Lewis and Clark’s famous 1804 expedition into the uncharted lands of America, in an accessible version drawn from the explorers’ own account.  Louisiana Purchase: Biographical sketches of Lewis and Clark, Napoleon Bonaparte, and Thomas Jefferson tell the story of the United States’ expansion into a new territory and a new era.  Sacagawea: Told from Sacagawea’s point of view, this historical novel shares the ordeals of her youth along with the memory of her journey west with Lewis and Clark. She shares her love of nature and explains how her loyalties have changed over time.  The Declaration of Independence: Covering major events such as the Boston Massacre and Paul Revere’s midnight ride, this accessible history brings the story of the Revolutionary War to life.  An Eye for an Eye: When her brother is captured at the start of the Revolutionary War, fourteen-year-old Samantha sets off to rescue him. But when she comes face-to-face with the enemy, will she still stand by her peaceful principles?  Take Command, Captain Farragut!: Ten-year-old David Glasgow Farragut is the youngest midshipman ever assigned to a warship in the US Navy. Told through fictional letters that Farragut writes from prison after his capture in the War of 1812, this richly imagined story is based on real history.  Ahyoka and the Talking Leaves: Ahyoka’s father is a Cherokee silversmith who dreams of a written language for his people. When he is ostracized for the “magic” he is creating, father and daughter leave home to pursue his dream on their own.  Grace’s Letter to Lincoln: After seeing Abraham Lincoln on a poster, eleven-year-old Grace decides to write to him and suggest that he might win more votes in the 1860 election if he grows a beard. Much to her surprise, Lincoln answers her letter, and history is made. This “touching historic encounter” is based on true events (Scholastic).