Robert E. Peary: To the Top of the World (Great Explorations)

Grade 5-8-These accessible titles will find use as adjuncts to social-studies curricula. Written in Calvert's characteristically engaging style, the first two books include a good deal of personal detail about both Boone and Peary, a reflection of both the sources available and the author's approach to their life stories. Lewis and Clark is a cut above other series titles on the topic; Faber does not sensationalize or overdramatize the encounters with, and central role of, various Native American tribes in the journey of the Corps of Discovery. A brief chapter is devoted to Sacagawea's role, but with the caution of how little documented information there is about her life. The general outline of this amazing expedition is clearly given, but in this brief text many of the wonderful details and key elements that make this seminal event in U.S. history so compelling are not included. However, this book would be a great starting point for more extensive study, or as a historical survey. In all the books, primary sources are quoted extensively, but well integrated into the fluid texts while colorful boxed notes amplify and provide contextual information. A variety of illustrations enhance the content, including color reprints of paintings, maps, black-and-white lithographs, and, in the Peary title, photographs. While most of the artwork is of high quality, there are a few grainy reproductions and photos. Bibliographies and notes list primary sources. Appealing and user-friendly titles.
Nancy Collins-Warner, Neill Public Library, Pullman, WA
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