Wednesday, October 21, 2015

Fall Into a Great New Book

By Jeff Burns

My “to-read” list is getting longer and longer.  Sometimes I think it’s too bad that I have to teach for a living; work is getting in the way of the important stuff:  reading.  This fall, there are number of great books about history being released, and I think my list is only going to get longer.  You might also want to be on the lookout for these titles.

The Last of the President’s Men by Bob Woodward is the heretofore untold story of Alexander Butterfield, a top Nixon aide at the heart of the Watergate Scandal.  It promises more shocking details of the goings on within the Nixon administration.



One of my favorite authors, Sarah Vowell, is releasing a new book called Lafayette in the Somewhat United States.  Vowell is an essayist, humorist, and keen observer of life whose previous books have combined history with current events, always in a funny, engaging, and challenging way.  This book is about the Marquis de Lafayette and his relationships with George Washington and the fledgling United States.

War of Two is about the infamous rivalry between Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr, a rivalry that led to the most famous, and most tragic, duel in American history.


Bill O’Reilly is following up Killing Kennedy, Killing Lincoln, and Killing Jesus with Killing Reagan, a biography of Reagan through the prism of the assassination attempt made early in his presidency.



Paul Theroux is one of the most famous travel writers working today, and Deep South is his take on the region.

While on the subject of the South, Rick Bragg has published a new collection of essays, never before published.





Finally, three music icons (and three of my favorites) have published autobiographies.  Each one is said to be an unflinching and honest account.


These are just a few.  Are there any new books about history that are on your list?

Sunday, October 11, 2015

History Books and Historical Fiction for Kids

By Nina Kendall

Are you a reader? Do you want to share your love of reading and history with your young reader? Are you looking for a good place to start? History books for children and historical fiction for children offer some great options for inspiring young readers.

The love of history and reading grew together in my house. I grew up reading about history and visiting historical sites. History and books inspired conversations and trips. I have fond memories of Johnny Tremaine, The Witch on Blackbird Pond, and Little House on the Prairie. I could share in their experiences and adventures.  

As a teacher and a parent I have had the chance to share the love of reading about history and visiting historical sites with a new generation. From the Magic Tree House series to Bud not Buddy; I have continued to share books about history written for young readers.

Today we all benefit from the growth of books being published. Books published about history or with historical themes continue to grow.  If you are looking for a history book to share with your young reader, check out our list of old and new favorites.  It would be a great way to share your love of history with a new generation. You both may find a history book to love.


Do  have a suggestion to share? Let us know in the comments or send us a pin on Pinterest. We are always on the lookout for a good book.