Myth-Busting
Columbus, by Kelly Bakshi, has it all –
adventure, intrigue, scandal, power struggles, lies, and the true story of one
of our nation’s most famous historical figures.
Should Columbus be honored and celebrated for his contributions or
vilified? This book is exactly what
teachers need to spice up their U.S. and World History studies. There are several questions this book will
answer.
First, was Columbus the first European explorer to “discover” North America
or were others there before him?” Is our
country named “Columbia” after Columbus or named for some other explorer? Second, was Columbus searching for “The New
World,” or was he looking for something else?
Third, was he a great leader or hero based on how he treated his men and
the native peoples in the New World?
Finally, what did Columbus accomplish?
What can we credit him with? What
was the Columbian Exchange and how did it affect the world?
As a companion to classroom history text books, Myth-Busting Columbus is presented in an easy-to-read format. Small bits are presented with “Think About it
Review” questions for continued discussion.
It is illustrated with interesting photos, paintings, and maps that
further grab our attention. There is a
vocabulary word list and bibliography, too.
In Myth-Busting Columbus, Kelly
Bakshi has brought history alive in a way that will stimulate classroom discourse. It will also clear up long held historical
inaccuracies. Thank you, Kelly Bakshi,
for this much-needed clarification!
Hi Penelope,
ReplyDeleteThank you for a review of an interesting-sounding book. I imagine teachers will want to include this for a more rounded look at Columbus.
Thanks, Barbara. Yes there's a lot more facts and controversy that wasn't in the old textbooks. He's fallen from grace for sure.
DeleteThis is just the book to make learning about Columbus fun and interesting. If the history of our discovers, and other national figures, HOOKS a child's interest, half the battle of learning the details is already won. Great review of a book that will grab class interest. Teachers will probably want to hug Kelly!!
ReplyDeleteBooks for Kids - Manuscript Critiques
http://www.margotfinke.com
Thanks, Margot. You are right on here. Kids need to learn to think, discuss, react, and engage -- not just passively listen. How else will they become informed adults?
DeleteGreat review Penny. Congrats Kelly. I read your book. It's a keeper. Wishing you great success.
ReplyDeleteThanks Susan, always appreciate your comments and support! I hope more teachers (and parents) will read this book.
DeletePenelope thanks so much for a great review! And thanks to all of you for the great comments! I certainly hope it engages young readers, encourages curiosity and ultimately gets kids thinking!
ReplyDeleteHi Kelly, you're welcome. Keep writing and finding these great book ideas. Can't wait to see what you'll write about next to help students and teachers connect with history and engage in learning.
DeleteI would enjoy this. I always think it's interesting that Columbus still has a day named after him after everything we've discovered. :)
ReplyDeleteHi Margo, thanks for your comment. Yes, I, too, wonder when there will be a movement to "dis" engage from Columbus Day?
Delete