The Declaration of Independence

November 1, 2012

Gr 4-6-These titles focus on the documentation of history. Each one begins with a good explanation of primary versus secondary sources. The history of each specific document is explored-who wrote it, how it was distributed, and how it is being preserved today. The texts are factual and straightforward. The information is not presented with any particular flair, but it is well organized and easy to understand. Small sections of text are broken up by highlight boxes, period illustrations, and photographs. A time line runs along the bottom of each page, drawing attention to significant events as they occur, and is reproduced as a whole at the end of the book so readers can see the entire progression. While many collections will already own books on these topics, the distinctive approach and clear accounts make these volumes worth adding.Lucinda Snyder Whitehurst, St. Christopher's School, Richmond, VA

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