The "Goldfinch" is a magazine that introduces children to different aspects of Iowa History. Each issue contains articles to provide in-depth knowledge of a topic about Iowa. The focus of this issue is homes and family life in Iowa history. Selections address what has been important to Iowa's families over time and what homes were like before electricity, indoor plumbing, and telephones were introduced to the state. Sod houses and log cabins from the early history are discussed. Family traditions and village, farm life, and a small town at the turn of the century are described from the perspectives of a Native American. Young readers and writers share impressions of home life and what constitutes a family. Instructions for building a sod house and making a handkerchief toy are included. A series of photographs from different periods of Iowa history pose questions to help students discover how earlier Iowans lived and what they valued. A short story and several activities help students explore Iowan history. One article includes excerpts from a young boy's diary recounting the cold winter of 1894-95 and how families worked and played together. (EH)