Pocahontas

January 1, 2003
Gr 2-3-An easy-to-read biography of the Powhatan Indian woman who played an important role in American history. The author is careful to give a disclaimer, stating that it is difficult to know the true story because of a lack of documentation. The incident in which Pocahontas saves John Smith's life is followed by the statement that Smith's account may not be completely trustworthy as he liked to brag about his adventures. However, several of Pocahontas's deeds were recorded by the Englishmen who settled in Jamestown and the book clearly states that she helped the colonists during their first fierce winter and was able to gain the release of some Powhatan prisoners. Later, when relations between the Powhatan and the English settlers deteriorated, she was taken prisoner and held for ransom. During this time, she agreed to marry the Englishman John Rolfe and was baptized a Christian. Illustrations in mostly drab greens and browns accompany the basic text, giving it a somber look. Large print and limited vocabulary make the book quite readable by the younger set. A suitable addition to most elementary libraries.-Anne Knickerbocker, formerly at Cedar Brook Elementary School, Houston, TX

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