973 The American Story

One of Santa's elves dropped off an early Christmas present that I am throughly enjoying during these days away from the normal routine. (Notice I did not say "these lazy, quiet days." Any teen date in December is never a lazy or quiet day!)

I am enjoying The American Story: 100 True Tales from American History by Jennifer Armstrong 2006 as they say---up close and personal. I have seen this book in bits and pieces and now I have my own copy to devour page by page, trivia tidbit by trivia tidbit, and enchanting drawing by enchanting drawing. Anyone who has known me for longer than 5 minutes usually discovers that anything "history" can catch my attention. I am not always the best student of history (although Younger Daughter would question that description since she has been quizzing me on historical trivia this evening), but I am an eager learner of most things history, particularly having to do with the USA!

From this book, I especially like the unlikely inclusions of such stories as the OK corral gunfight in Tombstone, Az. (I have been to Boot Hill to visit a relative!), the Iditarod sled dog race origin, and even one of the events that probably introduced many of us digital immigrants to our first taste of what was awaiting us down the line---Pac Man!

I have already told Younger Daughter if she is very good, I might lend this book to her to share with her future students. But it will be hard to part with, so I'll probably get her her own copy once she has settled down at a permanent address.

On her own blog, the author shares with anyone who visits a fantastic slideshow displaying artwork that Roger Roth produced for the book. Be sure and click on the images for details. Random House, the publisher, has an activity-filled teacher's guide for using with the various events discussed in the book.

I sure am lucky to know some pretty smart Santa's elves these days. Thanks LP!