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The California Gold Rush
On January 24, 1848, a man working near Sutter's Mill in California spotted a few small gold nuggets in the American River. This discovery led thousands of people to move to the west. However, looking for gold proved to be dangerous work. Although many did not strike it rich, the gold rush was a time of great change in the United States. Author Elaine Landau poses many other exciting questions to the reader in this engaging narrative.
* Reviews *
Focusing on some of our nation's pivotal historical events, this series asks readers to put themselves in the position of key decision makers. The brief chapters are chronological and focus on a specific situa-tion or turning point, ending with a "What would you do?" text box. A question specific to the situation is posed along with one to three possible answers or outcomes. The following chapter reveals the actual decision before moving on to the next turning point. Drawing young readers into history in this here-and-now style will keep them engaged and focused. Although the content doesn't always match the level of the questions, enough information is provided to form an opinion. Answering the questions in a more thoughtful way will require further reading and research that goes beyond the reading level of these titles. Illustrations include art reproductions, maps, and primary-source materials. Under the guidance of a skillful teacher/adult, these titles and their questions will be useful for all sorts of activities. The cover design and titles will draw in browsers., School Library Journal December 2008
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Grades
3--5 IL
Grades
3-5 GRL
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