Juan Ponce de Leon
Kristin Petrie
Library Binding
(Checkerboard Books, Jan. 1, 2007)
This biography introduces young readers to the life of Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de Le贸n. Readers learn about his early education as a page and a squire to Pedro N煤帽ez de Guzm谩n and his early inspirations, such as Christopher Columbus's stories of reaching the Indies by sailing west across the Atlantic Ocean. Readers also learn that many historians believe Ponce de Le贸n joined Columbus's second voyage to the New World, which set sail from C谩diz, Spain. Ponce de Le贸n's time on Hispaniola, his military service, and his family life are also discussed. Engaging text details Ponce de Le贸n's expedition to Puerto Rico for King Ferdinand II, who allowed Ponce de Le贸n to colonize the island. A detailed map allows readers to follow Ponce de Le贸n's expedition to the island of Bimini in search of the Fountain of Youth. Readers discover that Ponce de Le贸n explored the Bahamas, named Florida, discovered the Gulf Stream, and explored the Florida Keys. Ponce de Le贸n's death in Cuba is also introduced, as is his legacy today in Puerto Rico. Full-color photos, an index, a timeline, discussion questions, bold glossary terms, and phonetics accompany easy-to-read text.
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