California History for Kids

November 15, 2011
The title says it all, almost, about "The Golden State," from early history to the near-present. Covering many topics with sidebars and illustrations to supplement the main text, as well as supplying 21 activities, largely crafts, such a book might be used as a text for elementary-school classes. But there are many elements that weaken its usefulness. The inclusion of facts seems scattershot; for instance, the book contains a "California First Facts" that lists the "Number of Dentist Offices (2008)" but does not mention the state flower, state bird, state animal or state flag--surely of more use and interest to students than dentists. Throughout, information is abbreviated and feels dumbed down, though the author has been fair in discussing issues about Junípero Serra, the internment of Japanese-Americans, the anti-foreigner laws during the Gold Rush and after, the treatment of minorities and the destruction of native populations by Anglo and Spanish invaders. But without a tribal map, how can readers know what areas the Maidu or Kashia or Coast Miwok or Ohlone inhabited? Without a general state map and/or textual description, how can readers know what areas are covered by geographical terms such as northern, southern or central California? As for the activities, they are poorly planned and do little to enhance the straightforward (one might say dull) prose. Caveat emptor. (bibliography, websites, index [not seen]) (Nonfiction. 8-12)

(COPYRIGHT (2011) KIRKUS REVIEWS/NIELSEN BUSINESS MEDIA, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.)

January 1, 2012

Gr 4-6-Duffield's well-written history opens with an overview of California's prehistoric fauna and pre-Columbian Native tribes. Subsequent chapters cover the exploration and mission periods, American takeover, Gold Rush and statehood, construction of the transcontinental railroad, and development of California agriculture. Duffield also discusses the state's rapid economic and population growth during the 20th century and explains their attendant benefits and problems. She concludes that despite its current issues, the state remains a place of promise and optimism. Throughout, she examines the treatment of the many ethnic groups that have been part of the state's history and, while not minimizing the discrimination and hardships they faced, emphasizes that its abundant natural resources and seemingly endless growth have led to increased opportunities and success for many of its residents. Sidebars profile influential Californians or expand on topics mentioned in the main text, which is supplemented with captioned period photographs, illustrations, and maps. There are 21 student activities and many, such as designing cattle brands, making model ships, and signaling in Morse code, could be done independently, while others, such as cooking, require adult supervision. There is no documentation, but there is an extensive list of resources that recommends books, websites, and places to visit. This book covers all of the state's history and places it within the larger context of American history, making it a good classroom or library resource.-Mary Mueller, formerly at Rolla Junior High School, MO

Copyright 2012 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

December 15, 2011
Grades 4-7 This broad survey covers California's past from the prehistoric bones found in the La Brea Tar Pits to the departure of the Governator from office in January 2011. Though framed largely in generalities, the narrative does highlight significant figures and historical milestones, and the author conscientiously notes the shabby treatment dealt to the state's Native Americans, Chinese, Japanese, and migrant workers over the past several centuries. The chapters are anchored by 21 crafts projects and enrichment activities of varying involvement and quality, which range from creating a milk-carton galleon and designing one's own flag to producing a movie and making a handprint la Grauman's Chinese Theatre. Period artwork, photos, and sidelight boxes add further detail, and annotated lists of websites and places to visit join a select closing bibliography at the end.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2011, American Library Association.)