Gr 5-7-A lively guide that teaches how to investigate history while it explores and explains various theories about the discovery of America. Short sound bites of information are grouped in loosely organized chapters that illuminate 10 theories about the "discovery" of America, e.g., the Land-Bridge Theory, the Multiple-Migration Theory, the Woden-lithi Theory, etc. But hard facts are only half the story here. Interspersed are a hodgepodge of ideas, suggestions, and projects that invite readers to think, question, search, and uncover the truth for themselves. Exercises and activities cover general topics-friendly versus unfriendly ways to disagree, the place of "wild" ideas in research-as well as specific ones-making maps, plaster-casting footprints, and more. Hart and Mantell often remind students of the importance of remaining fair and open-minded. Ultimately, they leave it up to readers to use the techniques in the book to decide which of the theories seems most likely to be true "for now." A final reminder notes that the question of who really discovered America will remain open in the future since "new information is always being uncovered." The volume has a workbook look with oversized pages bordered in black and gray designs and illustrations consisting of black-and-white cartoons, sketches, maps, and photographs. A useful and thought-provoking tool.-Susan L. Rogers, Chestnut Hill Academy, PA Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information.
