Reviews several children's biographies of Columbus and challenges the image of Columbus portrayed in these books. Calls upon educators to be more critical when having elementary school students read about Columbus. (MG)

Presents a listing of historical books for elementary school students by author Jean Fritz; includes a poster and a calendar with daily class activities to teach students about famous historical figures. (SM)

Describes how teacher educator Sam Sebesta's work and life continue to focus on reading and viewing as a performing art. Discusses how his journey and his many contributions to the world of reading and literature have been notable and worthy. (SC)

Examines multiple perspectives in historical fiction and biography. By exploring point of view, students are inspired to look outward and investigate characters' experiences and the diversity in their world. Teachers should not allow their own cultures to bias selection and interpretation of texts. They should encourage students to develop…

An illustrated story for young children features Christopher Columbus's first voyage to the Americas in 1492. The story begins with Columbus's youth in Genoa, Italy, follows him to Portugal and then to Spain, where he finally received backing for a voyage west to reach the East Indies. The preparations for the voyage and the trip itself are…

This manual is a resource for elementary school teachers who wish to supplement their curriculum with material highlighting the contributions of women. The guide presents 180 vignettes of women who achieved greatness in areas such as science, fine arts, sports, adventure, social reform, politics, history, and other fields. A "stimulus"…

Discusses biography for children as a literary form concerned with the task of personality integration and sets forth criteria for the selection of biography for children. (GT)

This sourcebook provides brief biographies of 65 popular children's nonfiction authors. Each profile focuses on how authors go about writing information books by giving a firsthand account of the challenges and rewards of nonfiction writing. Each biography provides a selected bibliography of the author's work, a photo, and a message to the student…

Cautions that biography about adults, written for children, should not be allowed to replace other forms of literature, such as fairy tales, that are psychologically healthier for children's emotional levels. Biography tends to prematurely impose highly complex rational descriptions of life upon unprepared minds. (RAA)

Recounts the life and times of a pioneer children's theater playwright and fiction author, Nora Tully MacAlvay (1900-86). Points out that her interest in children's theater and children's literature was lifelong and intense. (PA)

Examines the image of Columbus as presented through children's literature. Examines the characteristics, personality, and accomplishments attributed to Columbus in trade books from the third- to sixth-grade reading level. Reports themes of Columbus as Genoese, child, sailor, man of scientific reasoning, leader, missionary, patriot, conqueror, and…

Illustrates how, in far too many ways, biographies of Christopher Columbus for young children have not changed much since the fourth centennial of Columbus' landfall. Asserts that the books are predominantly white, are addressed to whites, and exclude women. (PRA)

Reports on the career of Theodor Seuss Geisel and suggests activities to celebrate his birthday. Lists selected children's books by Dr. Seuss, selected Seuss videos, Web sites, biographical resources, and biographical videos. (LRW)

Suggests ways of studying women's biographies so as to provide young girls with appropriate role models. (DD)