American Places: From Vision to Reality

This series features accessible volumes about great American places. Struggling readers will not be overwhelmed with lengthy text, as there is approximately one paragraph on each page. The text is supplemented with images, drawings, and clear diagrams. For those who are mathematically inclined, each book also includes a two-page “By the Numbers” spread. Words found in the glossary appear in bold type the first time they are used in the text. Additional Resources. Bibliography. Glossary. Index. Websites.
Recommended

Using eye-catching graphics, this series illuminates the fascinating histories of a few iconic U.S. sites. For instance, readers discover that in its infancy, the Statue of Liberty was so little regarded by the U.S. government that Congress refused to pay for the statue’s pedestal, thereby inspiring a nationwide fund-raising campaign among school children. Many images depict the early stages of planning and building, giving a rare insider’s look at how these famous places came to be. This mix of history and architecture with just a dash of archaeology allows students to encounter each subject from a variety of angles (e.g., how did archaeologists contribute to the rebuilding of Colonial Williamsburg, what are the architectural similarities between James Hoban’s design for the White House and the Leinster House in Dublin, Ireland?). VERDICT: A multifaceted look at some of the top historical destination spots in the United States. Recommended.

This entry in the American Places: From Vision to Reality series offers a pleasing overview of the skyscraper, from its inspirational design to its status today. Many of the two-page spreads focus on the engineering involved, especially the use of concrete and steel to support weight, as well as the construction teams. Those workers, including Mohawk “sky boys,“ are featured at fearful heights without safety gear in period photographs. Goldish explains how the continued construction of the Empire State Building during the Stock Market Crash of 1929 made the skyscraper a symbol of hope. The remaining text discusses the building’s opening day in 1931, its continuing history, and its enduring popularity. A concluding, “By the Numbers” graphic relates fast facts. This well-organized resource adeptly integrates social studies and STEM.