Off the Map: The Journals of Lewis and Clark [Paperback]

Peter Roop (Editor), Connie Roop (Editor), Tim Tanner (Illustrator)

Book Description

Age Level: 8 and up

A compilation of entries and excerpts from the journals of William Clark and Meriwether Lewis, describing their historic expedition.

Editorial Reviews

From Publishers Weekly

Judicious editing and handsome design are evidence of the authors' and illustrator's creative introduction of historic source materials--in this case, the eight-volume Original Journals of the Lewis and Clark Expedition , which recorded the famous explorations of 1804-1806. Excerpts from the journals are framed by a fact-filled prologue and epilogue. While the book's effectiveness would have been enhanced by even more explanatory matter, such as a timeline, or a glossary explaining terms like "equipage" and "pirogue," the Roops' chronological arrangement imparts a feel for the challenges and dangers of the 8000-mile trip through the Louisiana Purchase, and Tanner's warm-toned, textured paintings amplify the text. Ages 8-12.
Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

From School Library Journal

Grade 5-7-- To those with an interest in history, there is always a unique fascination with primary-source documents. The Roops have taken the eight-volume journals of Lewis and Clark and edited them into short excerpts that capture the highlights of the more than two-year, 8,000 mile expedition across an uncharted wilderness. Ironically, it is this very authenticity that weakens Off the Map ; the 1800's writing style, idiomatic expressions, and customs are often difficult to follow, and there are neither explanatory notes nor glossary. Although some interesting vignettes are presented here, such as Meriwether Lewis's introspective thoughts on his birthday and the explorers' first encounter with a 500-pound grizzly bear, the main value of the book is as an adjunct to existing works. The colorful contemporary renderings, while eye-catching, do little to enhance the historical value of the text. Blumberg's The Incredible Journey of Lewis and Clark (Lothrop, 1987), McGrath's The Lewis and Clark Expedition (Silver Burdett, 1989), and Stefoff's Lewis and Clark (Chelsea, 1992) are aimed at similar audiences and all present comprehensive accounts of the expedition. --Anita Palladino, Finkelstein Memorial Library, Spring Valley, NY
Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Reading level: Ages 8 and up
  
• Paperback: 44 pages
• Publisher: Walker Books for Young Readers (March 1, 1998)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0802775462
• ISBN-13: 978-0802775467
• Product Dimensions: 9.2 x 5.9 x 0.2 inches
• Shipping Weight: 4.6 ounces
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,421,372 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)