The New Americans: Colonial Times: 1620-1689 – An Educational Picture Book about European Settlers for Children (Ages 6-10) (The American Story Series, 3)

For most school children, American Colonial history starts with the founding of Plymouth in 1620 and then fast forwards to 1775 and the beginning of the American Revolution. That is 155 years of important American history that is usually ignored. Fortunately, Betsy Maestro covers this formative period in two books, "The New Americans" and "Struggle for a Continent: The French and Indian Wars". Betsy Maestro is a very clear writer and tells what could be a complicated story in a manner appropriate for young children. In addition, she is as "unbiased" as you could hope for in a book like this. The only downside with this book are the illustrations. I found Giulio Maestro's illustrations to be amateurish and out of scale. But having said that, my nine year old son was fine with Maestro's illustrations. Betsy Maestro's "The American Story" series is really well written. I will be purchasing all of the books in the series. This series does a great job of introducing American history to young children in a throughtful and measured manner. My sense is that in time, this series will become a classic of children's historical non-fiction. Highly recommended.

I am astounded by how much I love this book. The entire series is phenomenal. Hats off firstly to the artwork. A majority of the images are 18th-century paintings redone in colored pencil to appeal to kids. Secondly, The narrative is slightly encyclopedic in nature but that makes it that much more informative. Long term I know my kids will love it but right now as I read/look with younger kids it is very easy to tell the story of each page. Love the authentic history told through wonderful artwork.

Arrived in very good condition as stated and days earlier than expected. Well done!

Excellent illustrations on each page and very good maps. Provides a concise story of the first settlers in North America and how the different European countries battled for control of this new continent.

In depth, but not too difficult for my 4th grader. Comprehensive as well. A great bridge between the Pilgrims (included as well) and the Revolution.

I got this book for my 8 year old son. The graphics are beautiful and the story is thorough in its telling of the American story, perhaps too thorough for his age group. My son is still learning the details of what happened to form this country on a grand scale. He wasn't quite ready for the details that are included in this book. Other children who already have a good grasp on American history would be ready for more details, however, and may not agree with this assessment. So all in all it is a very good book. I think the "picture book" quality of the book is beguiling. I'm thinking now that the text is great for my 11 year old, while the art work is a feast for the eyes for my younger children.

Great book, as is the rest of the series! We own all of the books in this series now and they've been a great resource for us as we learn about American history for homeschool this year. Highly recommend!

Love these books. Perfect for elementary school. You can use all or parts to cover lessons on US and VA History!