Books in American Story series

Why did Richard Nixon become the first president to resign? Readers discover the answer to this question as they explore the political scandal known as Watergate. This complex topic is explained through accessible main text featuring annotated quotations from historians as well as historical figures and documents. Primary sources, enlightening sidebars, and a detailed timeline provide additional information and context for readers looking for insight into this challenging time in American history. Watergate continues to influence how Americans view politics and politicians, and a deeper understanding of why is crucial for the next generation of informed American citizens.

Multicultural adventure tales from around the world. Turtle caries the world on her back. The story has been told by different cultures around the world for centuries. The image is rich with symbolism. Turtle, like Mother Nature, is unhurried, wise, and enduring. She walks on land, swims in water, and breathes the air―she embodies three of the four elements of creation. We have much to learn from Turtle. The eleven stories in this collection come from Africa, India, Japan, Australia, and the Americas. "The Courting of Miss Python" tells of how Turtle outwits the brutal King Python to win his daughter's lovely hand; "The Monkey's Liver" explains why Monkey never rides on Turtle's back and why Jellyfish has no spine; and "The Talkative King" tells of how a chatty ruler learns from Turtle why it is often wiser to listen than to talk. These Brazilian folktales teach readers the importance of citizenship, resourcefulness and respect. DeSpain received much praise for this collection. One reviewer wrote, "If you love critter tales like I do, you're really going to enjoy Eleven Turtle Tales. Pleasant DeSpain collects surprisingly unique, retellable stories."

Bring history to life for students in grades 6 and up using U.S. History: Inventors, Scientists, Artists, and Authors! This 128-page book provides a full-spectrum view of some of the most fascinating and influential lives in U.S. history. It features biographical sketches of historical figures such as George Washington Carver, Harriet Beecher Stowe, Washington Irving, Mark Twain, Alexander Graham Bell, and Ernest Hemingway. The book includes time lines and reinforcement questions and works perfectly as a full unit or classroom supplement. It supports NCSS standards and the National Standards for History.

Native peoples of the United States and Canada have rich histories and traditions that help them maintain varied cultural identities in modern society. In the past, white Americans attempted to hide or eradicate these cultures. Today we know that they should instead be celebrated. The artifacts and customs of these early civilizations are presented to readers through full-color photographs and primary sources, and a detailed timeline places historical events in chronological order. Readers will enjoy learning about the vibrant past of cultures that are still active today.

These twenty-one stories in African-American History make up an inspiring album of Americans of African descent who, against all odds, made significant contributions to American history (includes information on Barack Obama). Their stories are told in language that is meaningful to the students learning about these notable people and events for the first time. Each story is followed by an activity that will help students recall the major contributions of each subject. Frederick Douglass, Bill Picket, and W. E. B. Du Bois are just a few of the influential African-Americans to whom your students will be introduced in this fantastic book.