Painless American History

Middle school students who think that American History is boring, or difficult -- or both -- will be pleasantly surprised when they open this book. Their teachers will also be pleased by author Curt Lader's skill at transforming the facts, figures, and dates of American history into a lively and fascinating narrative. The full span of American history is covered, starting with Columbus's landing, then proceeding to colonization, the Revolutionary War against England, the formation of a new government, American growth and expansion during the nineteenth century, and emergence as a major world power in the present century. Here are the discoveries, the personalities, the wars, the scientific and technological triumphs, the rough-and-tumble political campaigns, and all the other ingredients that add up to make a colorful and exciting chronicle. Timelines, ideas for fascinating Internet projects, and the author's light narrative style are just a few of the ingredients that make this a history book kids will enjoy reading.