Champlain

November 1, 2004
Gr 4-6-A revised and expanded version of the author's Samuel de Champlain (Grolier, 1986; o.p.), this lushly pictorial biography, extended with archival artwork, maps, and artifacts, boasts additional illustrations in muted colored pencil. Eight brief, four- to eight-page chapters written in an engaging, lively prose cover Champlain's early years in France and his experiences in Canada from 1603 until his death in 1635. Frequent sidebars add information without disrupting the flow of the text. Back matter includes mysteries about Champlain's life and describes historic sites and monuments. Libraries that own the earlier title will want to update with this handsomely laid out book, while those that have more standard biographies, such as William J. Jacobs's Champlain: A Life of Courage (Watts, 1994; o.p.), can certainly use a more readable, attention-getting treatment.-Ann Welton, Grant Elementary School, Tacoma, WA

Copyright 2004 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

October 15, 2004
Gr. 4-6. This handsome volume is the revised and expanded edition of a book first published in Canada under the title " Samuel de Champlain " (1986). It profiles the man who explored areas of eastern Canada, mapped them, and led the settlement at Quebec from 1608 until his death. The discussion not only introduces readers to the explorer's life story and the challenges he faced in North America but also provides excellent background information on topics such as the clamor for beaver skins (European hatmakers coveted them) and the enmity between the Huron and the Iroquois. Readers in the U.S. may not be familiar with the term " First Nations" , but in context here, they will recognize that it relates to Native Americans. Back matter includes a discussion of what we don't know about Champlain, a description of historic sites to visit, and suggestions for further reading. Besides the reproductions of paintings and drawings from a number of period sources, Francis Back contributes many fine original illustrations. (Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2004, American Library Association.)