Patricia Fontes, Sarah W. Gibbons Middle School, Westborough, MA for School Library Journal, Audiovisual Review, August 1999 issue, page 65.
"Symbols of Kansas introduces the people, places, and things that represent our 34th state and provides an excellent introduction to its history and culture. A pleasant, clearly understood male voice provides the narration as the video moves briskly from geological and geographic symbols to historic, cultural, and official symbols of the state. The wide variety of interesting visuals disprove what the video itself describes as the first widely known (but very inaccurate) symbol of Kansas, 'The Great American Desert'. This well-constructed video would be useful in units on states or Kansas history."
"Mention Kansas and what comes to mind? As far back as 1822, they were calling it the 'Great American Desert', but actually it's only the extreme southwest corner that exhibits real desert features. Focusing on symbols commonly associated with the state, we literally get a picture of how Kansans view their state and also how others see it. Using these images as signposts, we travel the length and breadth of the 'Two by Four' state, learning what these symbols reveal about the history, geography, population, agriculture and commerce, and emerging with an impression of a beautiful, wealthy state, rich in history. Fact-filled, lively, and beautifully photographed, Symbols of Kansas is demonstrated proof that there is, indeed, plenty of 'there' there. Recommended."
"As I reviewed the video I found myself drawn in and fascinated by the facts that were unveiled to me. I considered myself up-to-date on US Geography but, this fascinating video and workbook dispelled quite a few misconceptions I had about Kansas."
Product Description
Symbols paint a very accurate portrait of Kansas. A portrait that shows a diverse people from diverse cultures living in a diverse land. All the differences form a great state and a great place to live and grow.
