Books with author Susanna Keller

Understanding primary sources helps young people become critical thinkers. After learning about the many different types of primary sources, such as diaries, speeches, oral histories, video clips, photographs, newspaper articles, artifacts, and political cartoons, students will understand that they are able to draw their own conclusions about the content in a historical source. They will become aware of the biases and limitations of voices from and about the past. photographs feature multiple primary sources, while sidebars encourage readers to engage with the text.

Although Alexander Hamilton recently recaptured the spotlight as the subject of a hit Broadway show, his role as one of the first and foremost interpreters of the U.S. Constitution means that his importance was never in doubt. This biography introduces readers to the exciting life, and dramatic death, of the man whose accomplishments include (though are hardly limited to) working as Washington's aide during the American Revolution, writing the majority of the Federalist Papers, serving as the first Secretary of the Treasury, and influencing the establishment of the two-party political system. Sidebars highlight key vocabulary terms or offer informative quick facts, which is a great resource for report-writing.

Every October, Americans are reminded of Christopher Columbus voyages, although they might not know much about his journeys. Readers examine both Columbus life and his voyages, from their preparations through their consequences for both Europeans and the native peoples of the Americas. Paintings, maps, and photographs illustrate the paths undertaken and give students a sense of how the Age of Exploration changed the world.

The true story of Paul Reveres life and his midnight ride are presented in a fun and engaging way. Revere was a respected Boston citizen, an artisan, and a patriot. Students will be fascinated to see the facts separated from the legend, which contained instances of pure poetic license in Longfellows poem. Color photographs, paintings, and Reveres own engraving illuminate colonial life and spur a sense of curiosity about the true stories of American history.

Every October, Americans are reminded of Christopher Columbus’ voyages, although they might not know much about his journeys. Readers examine both Columbus’ life and his voyages, from their preparations through their consequences for both Europeans and the native peoples of the Americas. Paintings, maps, and photographs illustrate the paths undertaken and give students a sense of how the Age of Exploration changed the world.

Merriwether Lewis and William Clark were chosen by President Thomas Jefferson to explore the newly purchased Louisiana Territory. Readers look at the highs and lows of the Voyage of Discovery, and the roles played by the people who joined them. They will learn how first-hand accounts from journals provide primary source knowledge of this adventure, as well as how different people approach the same event from different perspectives. Paintings, photographs, and maps present the huge scope of this trek, and explain how important the journey was to Americas westward expansion.

The true story of Paul Revere’s life and his midnight ride are presented in a fun and engaging way. Revere was a respected Boston citizen, an artisan, and a patriot. Students will be fascinated to see the facts separated from the legend, which contained instances of pure poetic license in Longfellow’s poem. Color photographs, paintings, and Revere’s own engraving illuminate colonial life and spur a sense of curiosity about the true stories of American history.