This is one of the best books of the season. Though filled with anecdotes about young Sam Clemens, the older Mark Twain, and how one became the other, it relies on the child having a basic interest in Mark Twain. The problem is that children old enough to have read Twain's books may be ready for a more sophisticated biography. The illustrations are amusing and strong, however, so gauge your children, the book may serve as a nice companion to Tom and Huck. Maine has several nature writers of national significance, among them Gail Gibbons, who summers on Matinicus.
Swamps often begin in marshes, when water becomes shallower and bushes, trees and shrubs take root.
There are many wetlands in Maine - both salt and freshwater. Take this to the woods or by the shore to understand how this teeming ecosystem works - and why it matters. As the two walk beside an old wall, the stones tell the story of eons of geology as well as something about human habitation. The illustrations are lovely, as is the concept. Plow on through, though, for a sweet study on the connection between human life and the land.