From School Library Journal
Grade 4-8?The key players and happenings between 1728?1864 that led to the Alaska Purchase Treaty provide the focus for this interesting and informative title. In addition to presenting the basic facts, Cohen includes numerous tidbits of "human history," enabling readers to better understand the reasons for and consequences of the purchase. Following a short, attention-getting introduction that highlights the actual sale in 1867, the remaining chapters cover the discovery of Alaska, the sea-otter trade, the land under Russian rule, the American takeover, and Alaska after the purchase. Quotes, facts, and stories culled from a variety of original sources; well-captioned, archival photographs and colorful reproductions; and interpretive, although rather opinionated, statements by the author make the history come alive. Susan Clinton's The Story of Seward's Folly (Childrens, 1987; o.p.) provides a more focused and to-the-point description of the purchase for a slightly younger audience. Peter Sgroi's The Purchase of Alaska (Watts, 1975; o.p.) includes a more in-depth and "scholarly" presentation for older readers. The Alaska Purchase is a solid addition to introduce our 49th state.?Roz Goodman, Bering Strait School District Media Center, Unalakleet, AK
Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.
