The Children's Book of America
Grade 3-6-The Children's Book of America (S&S;, 1998) is another in the series of books edited by William Bennett, who held top posts in both the Reagan and Bush administrations. This audio edition has a selection of 13 patriotic stories and songs. After a brief introduction by Bennett, items are organized chronologically beginning with a Native American legend about the Grand Canyon. Well-known events such as the Alamo and the first Thanksgiving are joined by lesser-known stories of a freed slave who sang in European courts and an Irish immigrant who cared for the orphans of New Orleans. "Yankee Doodle," "Swing Low Sweet Chariot" and "The Star Spangled Banner" are sung a cappella with short explanations added. The selection of myths about Paul Bunyan and John Henry enliven the informative but sometimes bland stories. All these selections are well-performed by Elayne Bennett, Hinton Battle, John McMartin and Phylicia Raishad. This recording offers teachers a chance to add audio media to class presentations on U.S. history. The plastic case will not stand up to heavy circulation. Not a necessary purchase, but interesting listening to supplement American history units.Barbara S. Wysocki, Cora J. Belden Library, Rocky Hill, CTCopyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.