Tuesday, September 20, 2016

Book Review: Presenting Buffalo Bill

PRESENTING BUFFALO BILL by Candace Fleming is an engaging biography exploring the myth and reality behind Buffalo Bill Cody’s life.
Fleming takes a fresh look at this “larger than life” historical figure by taking readers step-by-step through Buffalo Bill’s remarkable adventures. Through the use of primary source documents, the author carefully explains the truth behind the many lies connected with the Wild West legend providing varied perspectives along the way. Sensitive cultural issues are addressed, along with the dark side of his business ventures.
Fleming weaves photographs and other primary source documents throughout the text bringing the time period to life for young readers. Back matter includes a bibliography, source notes, and an index.
Librarians will find this middle-grade biography to be popular among children doing “people reports” as well as those who enjoy reading about famous historical figures. It would also be a good choice for children who aren’t interested in Presidents or other historical figures but need an interesting history topic.
Learn more about the author at http://www.candacefleming.com/.
Published by Roaring Brook Press, an imprint of Macmillan on September 20, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Website Review: Lightyear.FM

LIGHTYEAR.FM takes users on a journey through space, time, and music.
This amazing immersive experience demonstrates how far radio broadcast waves have traveled from the Earth over the past century. The default option takes users backwards through time beginning in 2015. Users hear short segments from popular music as they speed away from the Earth in light years.
The interactive site allows students to select the distance from Earth as well as click on celestial objects.
Librarians will find this easy-to-use website a fascinating way to help students understand space, time, and human broadcast history. Pair the website with books that explore these topics.
To visit the website, go to http://www.lightyear.fm/.