Lucia Raatma

In this book, we are told the story of what it was like to be an enslaved African-American during the Revolutionary War. The loyalists, who were American colonists that remained loyal to the British, caught wind of the unfair treatment towards the slaves. This allowed the loyalists to make a deal with the slaves and offer them a spot to fight against the patriots. More than 100,000 salves fought with the loyalists, and it was not about whose side they were on, it was about them being free. show more At first, only free African-Americans were allowed to fight, but eventually that all changed. We are introduced to important African-American's in history, and the many battles they faced during the Revolutionary War.

I found this book to be very interesting. Whenever I think of the Revolutionary War, my mind immediately goes to George Washington and that is honestly so ignorant of me to do. The different men I learned about in this book, and the countless efforts enslaved blacks made is absolutely incredible. Each page was so inspiring and filled with important information that I had no idea about. I thought the author did an amazing job, and everything flowed beautifully. This book offers a diverse dynamic within the classroom and can teach young readers so much. show less

Genre: Informational

Summary: In this book the science behind the American military is introduced. It discusses the physiology, psychology, and fitness of soldiers, the food their bodies need, the science of how their gear is not only carried but also worn. It discusses the technological advances of weapons, GPS, and ways to stay safe.

Review: This book introduces very cool concepts and can spark deep conversations and research about the various science used in the military. While this book show more does not give many scientific explanations, I would use it in my class. show less

Bill Gates: Computer Programmer and Entrepreneur by Lucia Raatma is a book about Bill Gates and his life story. He was born in Seattle, Washington and was interested in computers as a young child. In high school, he and a friend wrote computer programs. He served as a Page in the US Congress and went to Harvard University. He intended to become an attorney but decided to work in computers. He went on to create Microsoft.

I like this book because it is very informative about the life of Bill show more Gates. It tells how and why he became interested in computers and includes the setbacks he encountered in his life.

I would use this book as one of many for older children from fourth to sixth grade for a unit on biographies. They would have to write an essay on someone of importance in the world and this one gives a lot of useful information. show less

This book explains the events leading up to, during and after March 7, 1965 in Selma, Alabama when a group of individuals planned a quiet walk to Montgomery, Alabama to bring attention to the injustices they faced as African Americans. The group was not armed or causing trouble but they were met and attacked by police officers leaving more than 90 people injured. The book is very moving and is full of facts that children need to know as well as descriptions of accounts that important in show more history.

Extension Exercise: this book could be used during Black History month or as an extension to a lesson on the civil rights movement. You could use it as an example of one story that helped to change a community and encourage children to find other similar stories that helped to change peoples frame of mind or help to encourage, promote equality. show less