From: Renee McGrath <renee1023>
Date: Mon, 23 Feb 1998 09:03:50 -0500

I must say that I have not read any of the series, however, I can not remember in recent times (besides the American Girl books-which I don't count), this kind of response to historical fiction. And I think that's an important word here. Fiction.

 Tracy wrote " I agree with Nancy Silverrod that it is important for students of history to understand how history is documented, what constitutes primary and secondary source materials, and what is fictional. But isn't that secondary to making history come alive? If we don't find engaging ways to present historical material, we will not have students of history." I think she is right. We are talking about 4th and 5th grade girls who are clamoring to read these books. What better way to spark their interest. Some of them will now move on to Cushman and Hesse, isn't that wonderful? I also think most of the children who read this understand that this is not a real girl who once lived, it is a story - fiction. I have not seen any confusion in this regard.

It's better than the Babysitter Club by a long shot, don't you think?(sorry Scholastic!)

Renee McGrath renee1023 at worldnet.att.net
Received on Mon 23 Feb 1998 08:03:50 AM CST