The popular series returns with it’s 9th title. Here’s what to expect:
In 1692, a few paranoid Puritans accused their neighbors of being witches sending the town flying off the (broomstick) handle. Before it was all over, dozens of women in Salem, Massachusetts were executed—burned at the stake. RIGHT?
WRONG! There was some serious witch worry, but no one in the United States was put on a pyre (though the truth isn’t much better). And women weren’t the only ones caught in crossfire…maybe don’t read this one aloud to your dog.
What really happened? The truth is historians aren’t totally sure. But it is certain that religious beliefs, a changing world, and a few super nosy neighbors collided to spell disaster for one New England town. No joke!
My Take: A great way to learn about history, especially with the uneasy times surrounding the Salem Witch Trials. Each event is described in paragraph and cartoon style illustrations. Be ready to dig deep into this historic event. The author does a great job with confusing letters or documents by first sharing them, then following up with an “In other words…” piece that explains the meaning in an understandable way.
The reasons for what caused the Salem Witch Trials can be debated with all the necessary facts presented here. In the back pages there is a nice summary timeline along with a list of books, websites, museums, and historical sites.
The Salem Witch Trials may be something young readers don’t know much about. With History Smashers they’ll learn of a unique time in our history in an enticing way. Other titles in the series include:
EARTH DAY AND THE ENVIRONMENT
CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS AND THE TAINO PEOPLE
THE UNDERGROUND RAILROAD
PLAGUES AND PANDEMICS
THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION
THE TITANIC
PEARL HARBOR
THE WOMEN’S RIGHT TO VOTE
THE MAYFLOWER
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Kate Messner is passionately curious and writes books for kids who wonder, too. Her award-winning titles include picture books like Over and Under the Snow and How to Write a Story; novels like All the Answers, Breakout, and Chirp; engaging nonfiction like The Next President and Tracking Pythons; the Fergus and Zeke easy reader series, the popular Ranger in Time chapter books, and the new History Smashers illustrated nonfiction series, aimed at unraveling historical myths and sharing hidden truths. Learn more at her website, www.katemessner.com
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This sounds like a fun way for kids (and adults) to learn about history. I don’t know that much about the Salem witch trials either. Thanks for sharing it this week.
I love this idea, and what a great way to get kids reading history (a favourite subject of mine in school but haven’t had as much time as I would like in recent years). Thanks for sharing!
Sounds like a good way to teach history. I’m all about that!
Anything about the witch trials is of interest to me. It was a dark chapter in our history. I like Kate Messner’s work. I’ll look for this one. Thanks for the heads up.
We are big fans of the “Over and Under” series in our house. 🙂 I didn’t know about this series, though. It sounds like a fun way to explore some heavier historical topics. I’ll have to check it out. Thanks for sharing your review. It was also really nice to see you at the KidLit meetup! Happy (belated) MMGM!