Alternating factual chapters are filled with maps, historical engravings, and modern illustrations. Fictional chapters are narrated by Tenerife, a fictional Timucua Indian kidnapped by the Spanish as a child, whose tales about Florida’s native cultures reflect his own escape and adventures on his journey home.
Weitzel’s book fills several basic needs for Florida’s young readers and educators. It is a valuable tool for school libraries serving students in state history classes at both upper elementary and middle school levels. It highlights native cultures in northeast, northwest, and south Florida, making it appropriate for public libraries, national parks, and bookstores throughout the state. Although there are multiple books on the Seminoles, this text is the only one for young readers on Florida’s many historic and prehistoric cultures. Fiction and fact are combined in an engaging introduction with solid, up-to-date history--in effect, two books in a single economical package.
Combining accessible archaeology and history, compelling fiction, and more than 50 illustrations, Journeys with Florida’s Indians will appeal to all young Florida readers and the teachers and librarians who work with them.
