The events and people surrounding the sinking of the Titanic are detailed in such a way that readers almost feel like they too are experiencing this tragic disaster. Here are some facts that you may not have known: 52 children died, all from the third class. Many life boats did not have the capacity number of people in them. One of the lifeboats, collapsible B, capsized and the occupants had to balance on the overturned boat until other lifeboats came to its rescue. More than 1,500 people died from this tragic disaster.

Awards nominated: Bluestem Award Nominee 2012

Reviewed by: jb

Date read: 6/10/2011

ISBN-10: 1596432225

ISBN-13: 9781596432222

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Where else could you find a short biography of Clara Barton, the story of the Pledge of Allegiance, state symbols, and the origination of Smokey the Bear? The American Reader has something for everyone: poetry, short stories, concise information, and lovely illustrations. Did you know it took Noah Webster 27 years to write the first American Dictionary? Or, that Amerigo Vespucci once studied under Michelangelo? This delightful treasury of tales contains fun tidbits for everyone.

Reviewed by: sc

Date read: 4/14/2009

ISBN-10: 1585360953

ISBN-13: 9781585360956

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This book is from the Life Long Ago series from Weekly Reader, and explores the culture of Ancient Rome. Once, people thought that Rome was founded by the twin sons, Romulus and Remus, of Mars, the Roman god of war. Romulus killed his brother so that he could be king. At its most powerful, the Roman Empire stretched from Europe to Asia, and included parts of Africa. Most boys studied to become soldiers. Even with this warlike beginning, Romans believed in education, and founded a republic that was emulated by the founding fathers of the United States of America. Did you know that the early Romans were also responsible for indoor plumbing, and that our system of writing is based on the letters of their alphabet?

Reviewed by: sc

Date read: 4/14/2009

ISBN-10: 0836877888

ISBN-13: 9780836877885

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Most of us know how much animals can enrich our lives, but did you know animals can also save lives? From our pets to farm animals to those living in the zoo or in the wild, many animals have risked their lives to save one of ours. Dogs such as Roselle led her blind master down 77 floors as the World Trade Center crashed around them on 9/11. Canine Velvet kept her owners warm and from frostbite when they were lost on a mountain during a surprise snowstorm. Feline Winnie woke her family repeatedly until they got up when their house had a gas leak and they were minutes away from death. To learn more about hero cows, gorillas and dolphins, read the true rescue stories of Animal Heroes.

Awards nominated: Bluestem Nominee 2012

Reviewed by: ewl

Date read: 3/11/2011

ISBN-10: 0822578840

ISBN-13: 9780822578840

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Animal Snoops, The Wondrous World of Wildlife Spies by Peter Christie is the perfect read for the inquisitive scientist. The author of this informative book 'clues' the reader in on the sneaky, amazing, and ingenious ways that animals find the best mates, discover the tastiest meals, and employ the most effective means of survival. We discover that the most 'Bond-like' creature of the species is better able to interpret the noises, actions, and habits of other creatures to increase its changes in the wild. Learn all about the fascinating survival techniques that creatures employ to exist and flourish in the wild.

Similar authors: Nicola Davies; Robin Michal Koontz; Lita Judge. Lori Hile

Similar books: Talk, Talk, Squawk!: A Human's Guide to Animal Communication by Nicola Davies; Screams and Songs: How Animals Communicate to Survive by Robin Michal Koontz; Bird Talk: What Birds are Saying and Why by Lita Judge; Animal Survival by Lori Hile

Reviewed by: mb

Date read: 7/6/2012

ISBN-10: 1554512174

ISBN-13: 9781554512171

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