From School Library Journal
Gr 6-10-A look at this fascinating man's life and at his contribution to American history. Although Seward is probably best known for his negotiations with the Russians for the purchase of Alaska, his service to America was far wider ranging. He was twice elected governor of New York, served as Secretary of State during the Civil War, and was responsible for helping to keep Great Britain and France from aiding the Confederacy. He had dreams of a Panama Canal and negotiated a plan to purchase the Danish-owned Virgin Islands. Written in a newsy factual style and illustrated with period photographs, maps, and editorial cartoons, the interesting text concentrates on Seward's political career. Daniel Cohen's The Alaska Purchase (Millbrook, 1996) contains a great deal of information about this event, as does David K. Fremon's The Alaska Purchase in American History (Enslow, 1999), but neither title provides complete biographical information. Kent addresses the American Civil War and Reconstruction, Seward and his relationship with Lincoln, and U.S. relations with foreign countries, making it a useful addition to most collections.-Dona J. Helmer, College Gate School Library, Anchorage, AK
Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.
