Independence Day: Birthday of the United States (Finding Out About Holidays)

Grade 3-5-Landau gently challenges the myths and assumptions about Columbus, acknowledging his mistreatment of Native Americans. She places the period of discovery and exploration in the Americas in a general historical context and presents varied opinions about the holiday as well as its history and diverse celebrations. There are instructions for making a sailboat from a walnut shell, paper, and clay. Mir Ansary's Columbus Day (Heinemann Library, 1998) simplifies information for a younger audience, while Vicki Liestman's Columbus Day (Carolrhoda, 1991) concentrates on the need to refocus it. Landau's book gives readers food for thought about the man, the period, and how the holiday might be interpreted and celebrated in today's world. It's sure to generate class discussion. Independence Day begins with a brief history of our fight for freedom, moving into the traditional components of Fourth of July celebrations-fireworks, parades, and food. A separate chapter highlights the 100th and 200th anniversaries. While traditional celebrations are described, the author also shares some unusual takes on the day. Projects include a "Glitter Sparkler" and "Celebration Ice-Cream Sundae." In both books, sidebars and archival photos and paintings appear on every page and expand on the information. Patrick Merrick's Fourth of July Fireworks (Child's World, 2001) introduces the holiday in a question-and-answer format and stresses fireworks, while Stan Hoig's It's the 4th of July! (Cobblehill, 1995; o.p.) describes the day for an older audience, giving more historical context and background. General overviews for social-studies units and for libraries needing more breadth in their collections.
Janie Schomberg, Leal Elementary School, Urbana, IL
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