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 accounted for, as well as Columbus's discovery of the New World and interactions with the "Indians." The book also seeks to place the significance of Columbus's discovery in perspective for young readers. A message from President George Bush focusing on that theme precedes the story. (DB)