Asia: Its People and History Review

I have had the privilege these past few weeks of reviewing a curriculum about Asia. It is more than a geography curriculum, though. It is social studies, language arts, worldview, and a prayer guide. Here is a description of the book:

"Welcome to Asia: Its People and History! Is the land of Asia a mystery to your kids? Do they know who lives there? Do they know how to pray for them? Asia is home to more than fifty countries and territories and roughly three-fifths of the world’s population. Could you use some help introducing your family to this vast land? This sixteen-week course presents a brief picture of six nations. It is by no means all encompassing. Its purpose is to introduce your students to the people of Asia, share their stories, and spark curiosity.

I pray that the course does much more than that, however. I pray that through meeting just a few of our brothers and sisters who live in cities and villages with names that are hard to pronounce that your children feel more connected with those who are suffering for their faith in Christ. Through stories and activities, we’ll meet the people of Laos, Bangladesh, Nepal, China, Iran, and Vietnam. We’ll get to know the children of these lands and hear about their experiences. Most of all, we’ll pray for them and their families. Won’t you join us?"

This fabulous curriculum was created by Bonnie Rose Hudson.

"Bonnie Rose Hudson lives in central Pennsylvania. Along with spending time with her family and writing, making kids smile is her favorite thing to do. Her heart’s desire is for every child to feel the love of God and know how special they are to Him. She loves creating curriculum as a member of The Old Schoolhouse Magazine’s Star Contributors Team. She works with both SchoolhouseTeachers.com (http://schoolhouseteachers.com) and The Old Schoolhouse Magazine® as an editorial assistant. At TOS, she found a place where her love of God and history combine with her love of writing to bring encouraging, educational, and entertaining material to students and their families.

She would love for you to stop by and meet the star of her children’s series at Exploring with Jake (http://writebonnierose.wordpress.com/), look through the 10/40 window of the world and join others in prayer at Looking Out the 10/40 Window (http://lookingoutthe1040window.wordpress.com/) , or stop by her author’s blogWriteBonnieRose.com (http://writebonnierose.com) for fun printables and discover how you can write for the homeschool market."

I have been reading through this book with my daughter who is in sixth grade. It is a sixteen-week curriculum that provides history, some geographical information, details about different people groups, and an explanation of what life is like for Christians in these countries, along with engaging stories of Christian children and the hardships they face. We have been enjoying the stories of the children in these Asian countries (my daughter says they are her favorite thing about the book). Not only do they give her an idea of what life is like in other countries, they help her to realize how she is blessed to live in America where we still have freedom of religion and persecution does not exist in the same form here as it does there. After each story, there are discussion questions that cause us both to think further about our own faith and what we would do if we were in similar situations.

Throughout the book, there are activities like word searches, cooking activities, matching games about animals, and maps. Links to other websites that aid in the understanding of the country being studied are also included throughout. A suggested reading list can be found at the end of the book. While there is not an extensive variety of activities in the book, there are many resources available to supplement the learning. Some can be found on Bonnie Rose’s blog, http://writebonnierose.com/asia-its-people-and-history-bonus-content/. You’ll find geography-themed copywork for each country and some word puzzles.

Asia: Its People and History is geared toward children who are between eight and 12 years old, but it can be enjoyed by all age ranges. The book is available today through the The Old Schoolhouse store for $6.95, but you can use the promo code, 02asia14!, to receive 25% off through March 15. The Kindle version is available today on Amazon for $6.95 as well.

What countries would you like to see in Bonnie's next book? Just reply to this post and let me know.

The Biggest Mistake in Our Homeschooling Journey

As life has unfolded, I have grown increasingly stressed, to the point where my jaw aches on an almost daily basis because my muscles are so tight. I don't know when it started, but I know when it is going to end. Tonight!

I was slapped in the face tonight with my own stupidity. In the middle of small group/Bible study, as we were talking about idols in our lives, I realized that my children's education is one of mine. I obsess over them reaching certain goals that I have set in my own mind. I obsess over whether or not I am following the right path in my oldest son's schooling so that he will get into the college he chooses. I stress about scholarships and how we might be able to afford to send him.

I forget that this homeschooling journey started with God. It was God who showed me that this was the path He wanted for our children. Somewhere along the way I took the reins and decided what was best. I forgot to run to Him when things got tough.

When one child hates virtually every subject, it is tough. When one child needs reminded all day long to get school done, it is tough. When college is just around the corner and you don't have the foggiest idea how transcripts are supposed to be done, it is tough.

Granted, these things don't sound like much. I know people are going through situations that are worse than mine—a lot worse. It is perspective, though. These are my difficulties right now.

It really doesn't matter, though, because the solution is the same. When things get tough, go to the Source. Why did God start you on your homeschooling journey? Do you think He didn't know what you'd have to deal with along the way? Of course He did. He knew He'd be there to guide you and carry you during the most difficult situations. He didn't set you up for failure. He didn't set me and my children up for failure either.

When I don't know what to do when my daughter hates math and just doesn't understand it, I need to forget about myself and ask God what He wants for her. What curriculum is better? How can I teach so that she can understand? How much extra time do we need to take on a particular topic just so she can understand?

When I have nagged my son to get back to his school for the umpteenth time, I need to run to the Source before I get frustrated. How can I help him to focus? What will motivate him to do his school work? Is there a better curriculum for his learning style?

When I am afraid that I have set my firstborn up for failure because I didn't follow the preferred educational plan that would guarantee acceptance to the school of his choice because I simply didn't know what was needed, I must remember that God started this journey. He will equip us with what we need to get the job done. My son will not be living on the streets because I didn't grade every piece of chemistry homework or because he used curriculum A instead of curriculum B. God goes before us and directs our path.

I am reminded of the first homeschooling conference I attended almost 13 years ago. There were a few things that God pointed out as the reasons why homeschooling was the option for our family. 

1. Most of the students were able to have conversations with adults.

2. They weren't going to be getting into trouble.

3. We would have the freedom to choose what curriculum to use and give our kids a Christian worldview.

The one thing that spoke volumes to me, however, was the story of a ninth grade girl who went back to a brick-and-mortar school. After a semester, she begged her mom to let her come back home because she wasn't learning anything. She actually cared about learning! I wanted that for my kids.

So, have we succeeded? I would say we are doing very well with the first three, but we are not doing so well with the biggest goal. There are times when a light will go off, and I can see excitement over something that they have learned. For the most part, however, it seems we have missed the mark on this one. I took it upon myself year after year to decide, on my own, what the kids would learn. I didn't ask the kids what they might like to learn. I didn't ask my husband what he thought about the curriculum I had chosen (although he trusted my decision and let me choose freely). Worst of all, I forgot to ask God. 

Forgetting that this was all God's idea in the first place has been the biggest mistake in our homeschooling journey.

Learn from my mistake. If God began this journey in your life, He wants to be a part of it every day. Don't put Him on the sidelines. Don't tell Him that your ideas are better than His by forgetting to ask Him for wisdom in the choices you make.

I look forward to less stress and a clearer picture. I know there will be tough times, but I will, hopefully, remember to go to the Source.

50 States: Oklahoma

OKLAHOMA

Oklahoma (OK) is located in the south central part of the United States. It was first inhabited by 67 different Indian tribes but was explored by the Spanish in the 1500s. The French claimed the land in the 1700s and controlled it until 1803 when it was sold as part of the Louisiana Purchase. Native Americans continued to reside in Oklahoma and were joined by other tribes who were forcibly removed from the southeastern U.S. by treaties and the military during the early to mid 1800s. On November 16, 1907, OK became the 46th state.

Soon after statehood, oil was discovered in parts of Oklahoma, and its economy grew rapidly. The Dust Bowl of the 1930s decimated the southern midwest states; thus, Oklahoma's economy declined just as quickly. Things began to improve by the 1950s and '60s. The economy today is supported by the farming of wheat and cattle, oil production, and natural gas production.

The capital of Oklahoma is Oklahoma City. Many of the cities in Oklahoma are named after Indian tribes. Tulsa is a form of an Indian word meaning "old town." Tulsa was once known as the oil capital of the world.

The state of OK is nearly 70,000 square miles, making it the 20th biggest state. As of 2012, there were more than 3.8 million residents. People who live in OK are called Oklahomans. Some famous people born here include Johnny Bench; Garth Brooks; Lon Chaney, Jr.; Vince Gill; Woody Guthrie; Paul Harvey; Ron Howard; Toby Keith; Mickey Mantle; Reba McEntire; Dr. Phil; Chuck Norris; Brad Pitt; Oral Roberts; Will Rogers; Sequoyah; Blake Shelton; Carrie Underwood; and Sam Walton. If you are unsure who any of these people are, look them up and see what interesting facts you can learn.

Oklahoma's nickname is the Sooner State. On April 22, 1889, Oklahoma was open for settlement due to an amendment in the Indian Appropriations Bill. It was on this day that any hopeful landowners could participate in what became known as the Land Run of 1889. At the stroke of noon, landowners on horseback and in wagons could race toward their choice of 160 acres of land. Those who headed out before noon included surveyors and marshals—people who were legally allowed to enter early. These people were called "Sooners." As Oklahoma developed, Sooner was a name given to those who were progressive, ahead of their time. The name became synonymous with the Oklahoma—the land of opportunity.

OK's motto is Labor omnia vincit which means Labor conquers all things. The other state symbols are:

Bird...Scissor-tailed flycatcher

Game bird...Wild turkey

Animal...Buffalo

Game mammal...White-tailed deer

Furbearer...Raccoon

Insect...Honeybee

Butterfly...Black swallowtail

Reptile...Collared lizard

Fish...White or sand bass

Floral emblem...Mistletoe

Flower...Oklahoma Rose

Wildflower...Indian blanket

Tree...Redbud

Beverage...Milk

Percussive Musical Instrument...Drum

Colors...Green and white

Dance...Square dance

The state flag of Oklahoma was adopted on April 2, 1925, after a contest was held to select the winning design. On the flag is an Osage warrior Indian's shield made from the skin of a buffalo. Seven feathers hang from the shield which is adorned with six crosses, or stars, that represent higher purposes or ideals. Lying across the shield are a peace pipe and an olive branch. The state name was added to the flag in 1941.

Some interesting facts about Oklahoma include:

*It is located within Tornado Alley and suffers the effects of roughly 54 tornadoes per year.

*A man from Oklahoma City is credited with inventing the parking meter in 1935.

*The shopping cart was invented by an Oklahoman.

*The electric guitar was invented by a man from Beggs in 1935.

*Twister was set in Oklahoma.

*The yield sign was invented in Oklahoma.

*Oklahoma has the largest Indian population of any state in the country. It is estimated that there are nearly 350,000 Indians today.

*Oklahoma City suffered a devastating bombing on April 19, 1995.

Some fun things to do and see in Oklahoma are:

*Pecan Festival every June in Okmulgee

*National Cowboy Hall of Fame in Oklahoma City

*World Championship Cow Chip Throw every April in Beaver

*Jenks is the Antique Capital of Oklahoma

*The National Lighter Museum is in Guthrie

*Frontier City Amusement Park in Oklahoma City

*The Museum of Osteology in Oklahoma City

*Garold Wayne Interactive Zoological Foundation in Wynnewood

*Alabaster Caverns State Park

*Oklahoma Railway Museum in Oklahoma City

Zoos, aquariums, sport centers, theaters, and national parks abound throughout Oklahoma.

There are several historic homes that can be toured as well:

*George Murrell Home in Park Hill

*Frank Phillips Home in Bartlesville

Fred Drummond Home in Hominy

*Pawnee Bill Ranch in Pawnee

*Sequoyah's Cabin in Sallisaw

*Sod House Museum in Aline

The history behind these homes is fascinating. If you don't get a chance to visit them, at least read about the people who once lived in them.

Play some games to test your Oklahoma knowledge.

The following items are available on christianbook.com. I am an affiliate, so if you purchase anything through my blog, I will receive a commission.

Oklahoma By P.M. Boekhoff & Catherine Gardner(Editor) / Gareth Stevens Publishing Bolster students' knowledge of the state they live in! Discover the history of the state, including Native American history, colonial history, and modern history, and learn about the current demographics of the state, the land itself, the economy, state government, and cultural attractions. "Fun Facts," "Famous people," and "In history" sidebars provide interesting tidbits of information. Full-color photographs, time line, glossary, and index included. 32 pages, softcover. Grades 2-4.

According to Plan: Oklahoma History Told from a Providential View By Jo Anne Bennett / Xulon Press

More Than Petticoats: Remarkable Oklahoma Women By Deborah Bouziden / Globe Pequot

Daily Devotions for Die-Hard Fans: Oklahoma Sooners By Ed McMinn / Extra Point Publishers Daily Devotions for Die-Hard Fans: Oklahoma Sooners combines the great passion of the Oklahoma fan with passion for Christ into one set of devotions. Author Ed McMinn, a retired journalist and pastor, uses game moments to illustrate Biblical truth. Have fun! Have faith! Go Sooners! Go God!

Food Lovers' Guide to Oklahoma: The Best Restaurants, Markets & Local Culinary Offerings By Katie Johnstonbaugh / Globe Pequot

The Camera Shop Kid: A Tale of the Discovery of Oklahoma's 1889 Territorial Schoolhouse By Melissa Michie / Tate Publishing & Enterprises

1945 & Beyond: A Family's Journey to the Oklahoma Land Run of '93 By Pat Lorett / Tate Publishing & Enterprises

To-1944: Oklahoma Farm Life By Pat Lorett / Tate Publishing & Enterprises

One Oklahoma Summer By Keith Cole / Tate Publishing & Enterprises

Beautiful Land: A Story of the Oklahoma Land Rush - eBook By Nancy Antle, John Gampert / Puffin

American Triumph: The Dust Bowl, World War II, and Ultimate Victory By Susan Martins Miller, Norma Jean Lutz & Bonnie Hinman / Barbour Publishing Transport yourself back in time with four historical stories in the Sisters in Time series! Written for ages 8-12, these fictional stories weave real historical events into the storyline. Stories include: Rosa Takes a Chance: a 10-year-old Mexican-American must overcome many obstacles to her dream of becoming a teacher. Mandy the Outsider: a 10-year-old's friendship with a Japanese family is frowned upon by classmates Jennie's War: a 10-year-old grows a "Victory Garden" to help the war effort---and begins to suspect a neighbor of being a spy! Laura's Victory: a 10-year-old wonders if the war will end soon enough for her loved ones fighting for freedom.

My Dad, Oral Roberts By Roberta Roberts-Potts / Icon Publishing Group Larger than life personalities sometimes are defined by perceptions rather than reality. In the case of Oral Roberts, the light his ministry shed on the American landscape sometimes obscures the man. This memoir from his daughter, Roberta Roberts Potts, illuminates the personality behind the healing crusades, international ministry, and landmark university. My Dad, Oral Roberts provides a gripping peek into the life of a compelling figure--one of the 20th century's leading religious and cultural icons.

Sequoyah: The Cherokee Man Who Gave His People Writing By James Rumford / Houghton Mifflin Harcourt This beautifully illustrated book is a "Robert F. Sibert Honor Book" and is filled with stark, colorful drawings of Sequoyah, the Cherokee people, and land. The story of an illiterate man who invented the Cherokee written language, the text is fittingly written in both English and Cherokee. Sequoyah celebrates literacy and the struggle of a people to stand tall and proud. 29 pages, hardcover with dust jacket.

Asia: Its People and History Pre-Order Special

Available for pre-order this week is Asia: Its People and History. This wonderful resource for learning about Asia was written by Bonnie Rose Hudson. It will retail for $6.95, but it is on sale through February 23 for just $4.95. Watch the video to learn more about the book and read a couple of questions specifically about the book from the author interview below:

Question: What is one lesson you learned from writing this book?

Bonnie:That God's plans are far better and wiser than any we could make on our own. 

Question: What is the 10/40 window, and how did you become interested in it?

Bonnie: The 10/40 Window is a geographical area of the world roughly between 10 degrees north and 40 degrees north latitude. The significance of this area is that it is home to over 4.5 billion people, over 8,000 different people groups, and some of the largest groups of unreached people in the entire world. More than 80% of the world’s poorest people live in the 10/40 window. It is an area that many people are taking intentional steps to pray for and reach out to the people who live there. You can read an excellent description of the significance of the 10/40 Window on JoshuaProject.net (http://www.joshuaproject.net/10-40-window.php)

Several years ago, God began to turn my heart’s attention to the stories of the persecuted Church. I had always had a heart for the persecuted in China, but I never grasped how widespread the persecution of Christians was until much later. I started reading about men and women who lived in Laos and Burma, India and Pakistan, and many other places. They were suffering terribly for their faith in Christ. This wasn’t the stories of the heroes of the faith of yesterday that I had grown up hearing about, or what I had thought were isolated stories from one nation. These were stories of families–including children–who were suffering right at that very moment for their faith.

Reading their stories gave me a burden and broke my heart. I had to do something, but I didn’t know what. Writing and sharing about their stories gave me a way to process what I was reading and feeling and a way to hopefully encourage others to become involved and share their stories as well.

50 States: Ohio

OHIO

The 17th state in the Union is Ohio (OH). It became a state on March 1, 1803, by an act of Congress in 1953. The actual start date of statehood was never written down, so the date of the first meeting of the Ohio legislature was used. Ohio has an area of 44,825 square miles, making it the 34th largest state. More than 11.5 million people live here as of 2013.

The capital of Ohio is Columbus; this is also the largest city in the state. Upon achieving statehood, the capital was Chillicothe, then Zanesville, back to Chillicothe, then Columbus in 1816. The current governor is John Kasich.

The people who live in Ohio are called Ohioans. Some famous people born in this state include:

Neil Armstrong...astronaut

Halle Berry...actress

Mary Ann Bickerdyke...Civil War nurse

Joseph Brant...Mohawk Indian chief, Christian missionary, British military officer (here is one definitely worth researching!!)

Drew Carey...actor, now of "The Price is Right" fame

George Carruthers...physicist

George Custer...general

Thomas Edison...inventor

Guy Fieri...chef, television personality

Harvey Firestone...entrepreneur

Clark Gable...actor

James Garfield...US President

John Glenn...astronaut

Ulysses S. Grant...US President

Zane Grey...author

Scott Hamilton...ice skater

Warren G. Harding...US President

Benjamin Harrison...US President

Rutherford B. Hayes...US President

John Heisman...coach, football player

Maya Lin...architect

James A. Lovell, Jr...astronaut

Henry Mancini...conductor

William McKinley...US President

Paul Newman...actor

Annie Oakley...folk hero

Dr. Oz...television personality, surgeon

Norman Vincent Peale...author, minister

Pontiac...Native Indian chief

John D. Rockefeller, Jr...philanthropist

Roy Rogers...actor, guitarist

William Tecumseh Sherman...Civil War general

Steven Spielberg...director, producer

Billy Strayhorn...songwriter

William Howard Taft...US President

Granville T. Woods...inventor

Orville Wright...inventor

Cy Young...baseball player

Wow, seven presidents and three astronauts! This is quite an impressive list. There were more than 150 famous people born in Ohio. This list is just a sampling. Be sure to learn more about these people and the others who hail from Ohio.

The economy of Ohio is supported by many different manufactured products such as airplanes, cars, plastics, steel, and things made of rubber. Coal is mined here also, and some farming is done as well. Some of the Fortune 500 companies that are headquartered in Ohio are Kroger, Procter & Gamble, Marathon Petroleum, Nationwide Insurance, Macy's, Goodyear Tire & Rubber, Progressive Insurance, Sherwin-Williams, Travel Centers of America, Big Lots, and J.M. Smucker.

Ohio's nicknames are "The Buckeye State" because of the countless buckeye trees that once grew in this state, "The Heart of It All" because of the state's shape and its location in the country, "The Mother of Presidents" for obvious reasons as can be seen above, and "Birthplace of Aviation" because it is the birthplace of Orville Wright and three astronauts.

Ohio's motto is "With God, All Things Are Possible." The state symbols of Ohio are as follows:

Bird...cardinal

Mammal...white-tailed deer

Insect...ladybug

Reptile...black racer snake

Flower...scarlet carnation

Tree...buckeye

Beverage...tomato juice

Ohio has the only state flag that is not a rectangle. It is called the Ohio burgee and is shaped like a pennant. The red and white stripes are similar to the US Flag. The blue triangle stands for the hills of Ohio. The 13 stars to the left of the white "O" stand for the first 13 colonies. Add to that the 4 white stars to the right, and you get 17. Ohio was the 17th state.

Here are some other interesting facts about Ohio:

*Cincinnati had the first ambulance service in 1865.

*The first traffic light went into service on August 5, 1914, in Cleveland.

*The cash register was invented by James Ritty in 1879.

*Police cars were first used in Akron.

*The hot dog was created by Harry M. Stevens and served first in 1900.

*Marietta was Ohio's first permanent settlement.

*The first automobile was made in 1891 by John Lambert.

*Teflon was invented in 1938 by Roy J. Plunkett.

If Ohio is in your travel plans, there are some sites you will probably want to add to your itinerary, like the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Cedar Point in Sandusky, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, the Cincinnati Zoo, African Safari Wildlife Park in Port Clinton, the Toledo Zoo, the house from A Christmas Story, German Village in Columbus, National Museum of the United States Air Force in Dayton, National Underground Railroad Freedom Center in Cincinnati, West Side Market in Cleveland, Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, The Wilds in Columbus, and the Akron Zoo.

Those who are interested in touring historic homes will find an abundance in Ohio. In Akron, you can visit the Hower House, Perkins Stone Mansion, Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens. The Sauder Village in Archbold is a 19th-century village complete with blacksmith, glassblower, and tinsmith. Visit the Hale Farm and Village in Bath for a glimpse at what life was like on a farm in the mid 1800s. Bellevue boasts the Historic Lyme Village. The Century Village Museum is located in Burton. The Christian Waldschmidt House in Camp Dennison is an 1804 house built in the Pennsylvania Dutch style. It served as part of the Union Army's training camp.

Cincinnati is home to the Harriet Beecher Stowe House, John Hauck House, Taft Museum, and the William Howard Taft National Historic Site. Visit the Hayes Presidential Center in Fremont and the Robbins Hunter Museum in Granville. Lane-Hooven House is in Hamilton. The birthplace of William Tecumseh Sherman is open for tours in Lancaster. Marietta boasts "The Castle," and Marion is where you will find The President Harding Home and Museum. Spring Hill in Massillon was a stop on the underground railroad and is open for tours. President Garfield's home, Lawnfield, is located in Mentor. The Edison Birthplace Museum is located in Milan. The Victorian Preservation Association lists many more historic homes throughout Ohio.

Play some games to test your Ohio knowledge.

The following items are for sale on christianbook.com. If you purchase through my blog, I will receive a commission as I am an affiliate.

Ohio By Michael Martin, Jackie Ball(Editor) & Kristen Behrens(Editor) / Gareth Stevens Publishing

Ohio and Its People: Bicentennial Edition - eBook By George Knepper / Kent State University Press

Hidden Ohio By Julie K. Rubini / Charlesbridge Publishing Discover the hidden facts about Ohio. Each two-page spread presents interesting information, from famous inventors to locations to history. Along the bottom is a list of images to find. Turn the pages every which way in order to find what you're looking for. Softcover.

Ohio Big Activity Book, Grades K-5 By Gallopade International

Ohio Jingo By Gary Grimm & Associates

History of Ohio in Words of One Syllable By Annie Cole Cady / Applewood Books Books containing words of one syllable proliferated in the late nineteenth century as a way to teach children to read. These books, today, still serve that purpose and are very popular with homeschoolers and parents as a way to promote reading. In this popular book from 1888, one-syllable words tell the history of the struggles and triumphs of the state of Ohio. Written to help youngsters of the day learn to read, the book combines stories, poems, and illustrations. Multi-syllable words are broken up into single syllables as Ohio's colorful past unfolds from statehood to the year 1888 when the book was first published. Patriotic, informative, and historical, this children's book remains a useful educational tool for teaching America history. In addition to being "both instructive and interesting to the little people for whom it is written," its unique presentation of the history of the state of Ohio can be appreciated by book lovers and history lovers of any age.

All Around Ohio: Regions And Resources By Marcia Schonberg / Heinemann Raintree How much salt is mined each year from Ohio's salt mines? Where in Ohio are footballs made? How do people make their living along the Ohio River? This book contains all kinds of fun and fascinating facts about the regions of Ohio and their valuable resources. You'll find colorful maps that help you locate Ohio's regions and understand their features. You will learn about the many natural and man-made resources of the state and how they affect its economy. And you will discover that there is much more to Ohio than just buckeyes!

One Giant Leap: The Story of Neil Armstrong By Don Brown / Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Discover the life of Neal Armstrong, from his days as a boy dreaming of flying to becoming a hero to millions as he walked on the moon. Beautifully illustrated and simply narrated, this story briefly details Armstrong's life.

Thomas Edison: Inspiration and Hard Work By Janet Benge & Geoff Benge / YWAM Publishing The Heroes of History series chronicles the true stories of fascinating men and women who changed the course of history. With only three months of formal education, Thomas Edison grew up to be one of the most successful inventors of all time. Applying scientific principles to practical use, he made scores of inventions and held over thirteen hundred patents, from improvements on the telegraph and phonograph to the development of the incandescent lamp and a whole system for distributing electricity. For ages 10 and up.

Thomas Edison Book of Easy and Incredible Experiments: Activities, Projects and Science Fun for All Ages By James G. Cook / John Wiley & Sons Thomas Edison patented 1,093 inventions and more chemistry experiments than any other scientist ever! This book reflects the fascination that he found in experimentation and presents the best, most popular experiments and projects sponsored by the prestigious Edison Foundation. Here, in one convenient volume, you will find a range of activities from the very simple (for primary or middle grades or individual young scientists at home) to the intriguingly complex (for older students, groups, or an entire class). These experiments require no science background. They utilize inexpensive, easy-to-obtain materials. Most of all, the projects are fun to build, safe and useful, and each provides a good demonstration of important scientific principles in real-life action! Most youngsters and teens can work on the experiments with little supervision, and there are ample ideas for science fairs and "extra-credit" projects. Over 100 illustrations are included, plus photos of the legendary inventor himself. Experiments in this book encompass magnetism, electricity, electrochemistry, chemistry, physics, energy, and environmental studies--topics for varied interests in grades 4 through 11. Throughout, emphasis is on the essence of scientific "tinkering," experimenting for the pure fun of it...activities that lead to satisfying hobbies, new ideas, and learning. Edison himself would surely enjoy this book--so imagine that you are visiting his laboratory, and let this be your introduction to a world of discovery...

Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives: An All-American Road Trip...with Recipes! By Guy Fieri & Ann Volkwein / William Morrow

James Garfield: The Preacher President By William Thayer / A Beka Book This biography will give students a detailed look at the life of President James Garfield. From a poor canal boy to President of the United States, Garfield exemplified the character that makes a great leader. Learn how Garfield stood up for righteousness through his godly life. Part of the "Sons of Liberty" series. This is an A Beka Book Reading/Book report book for grades 7-12. 264 pages.

Who Was Ulysses S. Grant? By Megan Stine, Nancy Harrison(Illustrator) & Mark Edward Geyer(Illustrator) / Grosset & Dunlap

Rutherford B Hayes: 1877-1881 The American Presidents By Hans Trefousse / Henry Holt and Co. The disputed election of 1876 between Rutherford B. Hayes and Samuel Tilden, in which Congress set up a special electoral commission, handling the disputed electoral votes to Hayes, brings recent events into sharp focus. Historian Hans L. Trefousse explores Hayes's new relevance and reconsiders what many have seen as the pitfalls of his presidency. While Hayes did officially terminate the Reconstruction, Trefousse points out that this process was already well under way by the start of his term and there was little he could do to stop it. A great intellectual and one of our best-educated presidents, Hayes did much more in the way of healing the nation and elevating the presidency.

Who Was Annie Oakley? By Stephanie Spinner & Larry Day / Grosset & Dunlap Annie Oakley was a sharpshooting, horesback-riding symbol of the Wild West. Annie was an elegant little lady who was courted by European aristocracy and admired by queens. She was a determined and brilliant performer who dazzled the world over. Find out more about the real Annie Oakley in this fun and exciting illustrated biography.

The Ultimate Roy Rogers Collection (Seven DVD Set) By BMG Acknowledged as the king of the cowboys, Roy Rogers has entertained audiences of all ages for over fifty years. This DVD collection is packed with great action, comedy, adventure, and romance; a must for all Roy Rogers fans! This collection includes 28 episodes on 7 DVDs:Disc 1: The Old Corral - Billy the Kid Returns - Under Western Stars - Days of Jesse James Disc 2: In Old Cheyenne - Idaho - King of the Cowboys - Silver Spurs Disc 3: Song of Texas - Cowboy and Senorita - Lights of Old Santa Fe - Bells of RosaritaDisc 4: Heldorado - Home in Oklahoma - My Pal Trigger - Roll on Texas Moon Disc 5: Song of Arizona - Under Nevada Skies - Apache Rose - The Bells of San AngeloDisc 6: On the Old Spanish Trail - Springtime in the Sierras - Eyes of Texas - The Far FrontierDisc 7: The Gay Ranchero - Grand Canyon Trail - Night Time in Nevada - Under California Stars

Memoirs of General William T. Sherman By William T. Sherman, Michael Fellman / Penguin Putnam Inc. Before his spectacular career as commanding general of the Union forces of the West, William Tecumseh Sherman experienced decades of frustration and failure. He participated in many of the critical events of early-nineteenth-century America: the protracted war against the Indians, the California gold rush, the banking panics, the political turmoil, and the elusive search for fame and fortune. Sherman's place in American history was still in doubt during the first stages of the Civil War, when he reluctantly led a Union brigade to humiliating defeat at Bull Run. It was not until his major role at the Battle of Shiloh that he began to assert his brilliance as a military commander. After his capture of Atlanta in 1864, which secured Abraham Lincoln's reelection, Sherman launched the infamous March to the Sea. Combining a ruthless scorched-earth strategy with shrewd psychological and propaganda, Sherman forever changed the nature of American warfare.

50 States: North Dakota

NORTH DAKOTA

The 39th state in our union is North Dakota (ND).  It officially became a state on November 2, 1889, after being a part of the Dakota Territory (the same day that South Dakota became a state).  Dakota is a Sioux word meaning friend or ally).  ND is the 19th largest state with nearly 70,699 square miles.  There are less than 725,000 people living here, which means there are roughly 10 people per square mile.  Nearly 90% of the population of ND is white, 1.5% black or African American, 5.5% American Indian, and 2.5% Hispanic.  The people who call North Dakota home are North Dakotans.

The capital of ND is Bismarck was named for Germany's Otto von Bismarck.  The largest city is Fargo.  This city was named after William Fargo, director of the Northern Pacific Railroad.

The economy of North Dakota is based on the farming of wheat, barley, oats, flaxseed, and cattle; the mining of soft coal and lignite, which is used to make electricity and synthetic natural gas; and generation of electricity through coal, wind, and water.

North Dakota's nickname are the Peace Garden State, Flickertail State (named for Richardson ground squirrel that flicks its tail before entering its burrow), and Roughrider State (name given in 1960s/1970s to remember First U.S. Volunteer Cavalry who fought in Spanish-American War.)  The motto is "Liberty and union, now and forever, one and inseparable."

The state symbols are:

Bird...Western meadowlark

Fish...Northern Pike

Flower...Wild prairie rose

Tree...American elm

Grass...Western wheatgrass

Beverage...Milk

Dance...Square dance

The flag of North Dakota was adopted on March 3, 1911.  A bald eagle is holding an olive branch and arrows. In his beak, he carries a ribbon with "One nation made up of many states" written in Latin.  A shield with 13 stripes represents the 13 original colonies.  The 13 stars above the eagle also represent the 13 original colonies.

Some interesting facts above ND include:

*Rugby is the geographical center of North America.

*English is the official language of North Dakota.

*The Sioux leader, Sitting Bull, is buried by Fort Yates.

*This state grows more sunflowers than any other state.

*Minot, North Dakota, was named after Henry D. Minot.

*It is one of two states (the other is Florida) with the least number of earthquakes.
*The average winter temperature is 12.2 degrees Fahrenheit.
*The average annual snowfall ranges from 27.2 inches to 51.2.

There were not very many famous people born in North Dakota, according to www.biography.com.  Perhaps the most famous was Lawrence Welk who was born in Strasburg in 1903.  He become a popular television personality with his own musical program, The Lawrence Welk Show.  The show plays in syndication now.

Some of the fun things to do in North Dakota are to visit Bonanzaville, USA, a history museum complex in West Fargo; Fort Abraham Lincoln in Mandan; Fargo Air Museum; Fort Mandan; Roger Maris Museum; Dakota Dinosaur Museum in Dickinson; Fort Buford; Chateau de Mores, a hunting lodge/summer home built by the Marquis de Mores in 1883; Scandinavian Heritage Park; and Fort Abercrombie.

Play some learning games to test your North Dakota knowledge.

The following items are available through christianbook.com.  If you purchase through my blog, I will receive a commission as I am an affiliate.

Are You Smarter Than A Flying Teddy?: Teddy Roosevelt Returns to North Dakota! - eBook By Kevin Kremer & Dave Ely((Illustrator) / Snow in Sarasota Publishing

Trucking with Noah: North Dakota to Arizona By David K. Nelson / Tate Publishing & Enterprises

The Last Stand: Custer, Sitting Bull, and the Battle of the Little Bighorn By Nathaniel Philbrick / Viking The story of the Battle of Little Big Horn looms large in the history of the American West. Overshadowed by the stories of its two legendary leaders—General George Custer and Sitting Bull—award-winning author Nathaniel Philbrick relies on the accounts available to put together a portrait that transcends the standard image of impossible odds vs. arrogance. 466 pages, indexed, hardcover with dust jacket.

Sitting Bull: Dakota Boy By Augusta Stevenson / Aladdin

Sitting Bull: The Story Of Our Nation From Coast To Coast, From 1840 To 1890 By Sally Senzell Isaacs / Heinemann Raintree This book describes the lives of Sitting Bull, U.S. Army soldiers, cowboys, and immigrants from Europe and Asia who created the Wild West. Each book in The America in the Time of... series uses reconstruction illustrations and photographs along with clear text to bring the story of our nation to life. Softcover, 48 pages. Ages 9 to 12.