Books with author Avery Elizabeth Hurt

"The importance of archaeological artifacts is explored in this fascinating book, full of real-life examples and photographs of objects and buildings that have been discovered. Readers will learn how artifacts of previous cultures, both near and far, help us learn more about the lives of people who lived before us, and help us understand ourselves better, too"--

A renegotiation of NAFTA and a trade war with China have kept tariffs and trade agreements in the news in the early twenty-first century. Tariffs, trade barriers, and the potential consequences of both are complex. This book presents a difficult subject in a straightforward and interesting manner. The use of historical and cultural tidbits, such as how the press ridiculed the embargo of 1870 by referring to it as "O grab me!" which is embargo spelled backward, will delight readers. They'll learn how South Carolina threatened to secede from the Union over tariffs in 1832, almost thirty years before it actually did secede. A discussion of the theory and history of tariffs and trade barriers puts the concept in context, while recent examples illuminate how they work in practice.

The Declaration of Independence is one of the most beloved of America's founding documents. This book offers a refreshing take on the history surrounding it. In addition to examining the circumstances and personalities that led to the drafting of the document, this book takes a close look at the wording and philosophy of the document itself, demonstrating how those ideas have defined our nation since. Readers will be surprised to learn that Thomas Jefferson initially included a passage calling for the abolition of slavery, and that the declaration provided much support for the U.S. suffrage and abolition movements that came later.

"The importance of archaeological artifacts is explored in this fascinating book, full of real-life examples and photographs of objects and buildings that have been discovered. Readers will learn how artifacts of previous cultures, both near and far, help us learn more about the lives of people who lived before us, and help us understand ourselves better, too"--

From the table to the lab to our bodies, this interesting and informative book introduces young readers to the element sodium. Easy-to-understand explanations, colorful illustrations, and examples children can relate to make this a fun way to learn about one of Earth's most abundant elements. Historical information gives the subject context, while discussions of the common uses of sodium, such as in soap making and food preservation, keep it relevant.

China is a massive country, but its surrounding mountains, two seas, and hazardous deserts kept it fairly secluded. In fact, early Chinese referred to it the Middle Kingdom, or the center of the world. China's major geographical features shaped so many aspects of life in ancient China, including how the various civilizations developed, their social organization, and the food they grew and raised. This illuminating resource reveals how the different ancient Chinese dynasties worked with and made the most of their harsh conditions.

John Adams said that the United States was a nation of laws. Of all the United States' laws, the legal principles laid out in the U.S. Constitution are the foundation of the country. The document defines the country's deepest ideals, its highest standards, and its wildest ambitions. The Constitution has served as the nation's guiding star for over two hundred years, with only twenty-seven amendments in all that time. Understanding it is the one sure way to understand the best of what the United States can be, which this book allows for your readers.

This volume takes a fresh look at Common Sense, Thomas Paine's provocative pamphlet that roused the American colonists toward outright revolt against Britain. With ample use of primary sources, this book provides historical context and a feeling for the times. It explores why this document was pivotal in 1776 and how it still informs the United States' idea of itself and its government. Illustrations and quotations, plus interesting little-known facts, make this a fascinating book for readers grades 6 to 8.