This is the true story of a Japanese diplomat during World War II as seen by his son, Hiroki Sugihara, who was 5 at the time. In 1940, their family lives in Lithuania, a country soon to be invaded by Nazis forces. One morning in late July, the Sugihara family looks out their front window to see hundreds of people waiting to see Hiroki's father. They are Jewish refugees from various countries who are trying to escape the Nazis by living in Lithuania. Now that the Nazis are on their way, they need help to get out of Lithuania and into another country. Mr. Sugihara sends a message to the Japanese government asking if he can help these people, but the answer that comes back is 'no.' What could be done? If Mr. Sugihara does not help the Jewish refugees, they could all die. Read Passage to Freedom to see what happens to these Jewish refugees and to the Sugihara family.

Awards nominated: Bluestem Award Nominee 2012

Reviewed by: mec

Date read: 6/1/2011

ISBN-10: 1880000490

ISBN-13: 9781880000496

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This book explains, in very simple language, a rather difficult topic, and gives suggestions for being patriotic in all sorts of situations. For example, being patriotic with your friends involves listening to everyone's ideas on what to do, taking a vote, and following the majority. The book is part of the Character Education series.

Reviewed by: sc

Date read: 4/13/2009

ISBN-10: 0736846832

ISBN-13: 9780736846837

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This is the incredible story of Phineas Gage, the railroad worker who, in 1848, survived the piercing blast of a 13-pound iron rod, which entered below his cheekbone and exited through the front of his skull.

Reviewed by: sc

Date read: 4/14/2009

ISBN-10: 0618494782

ISBN-13: 9780618494781

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In this book, ' A Picture Book of Samuel Adams,' the young reader is introduced to one of the most influencial men in our nation's history. Learn about Samuel Adams' life and stuggles as he tirelessly and passionately fights for America's independence from Britain. This is a perfect book for the reader just learning about the beginnings of our country.

Similar authors: Fiona Macdonald; Kathryn Lasky; Elizabeth Van Steenwyk

Similar books: A Picture Book of Sacagawea by David Adler; A Picture Book of Abraham Lincoln by David Adler; A Picture Book of Jesse Owens by David Adler; First Dog Fala by Elizabeth Van Steenwyk; When Abraham Talked to the Trees by Elizabeth Van Steenwyk; Vision of Beauty by Kathryn Lasky

Reviewed by: mb

Date read: 7/5/2010

ISBN-10: 0823418464

ISBN-13: 9780823418466

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Pocahontas, meaning 'playful little girl' played an important role in American History. Although she had a very short life, living only to the age of 22, she accomplished great things. She was responsible for helping the 1st settlers of Jamestown survive their first year, she might have saved John Smith's life, and she helped keep peace between the Native Americans and the English settlers. Pocahontas by Lucia Raatma, is an easy to read, yet remarkably complete biography of the highlights of Pocahontas' life. This is a perfect non-fiction book for the young reader.

Similar authors: Anddrew Santella; Elizabeth Dana Jaffe; Vicky Franchino

Similar books: Pocahontas by Joseph Bruchac; Pocahontas: Bridging 2 Worlds by Larry Dane Brimner; Pocahontas: Peacemaker by Anne Holler

Reviewed by: mb

Date read: 7/3/2010

ISBN-10: 0756501156

ISBN-13: 9780756501150

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