The Missions: California Heritage Mission San Gabriel Arcangel Book Review

In this book by Mary Null Buoule`, book four in a series of twenty-one, the author provides you with a short 25 page brief history of the missions. The book includes a glossary of terms, several sketches, an outline of the book, and how to get more information on the San Gabriel Mission by sending the Mission a self-addressed envelope with stamp envelope. I rarely see this done in books. I enjoyed this short presentation of facts about the mission. I also like the layout of it. She is very clear on its purpose starting with "Dear Reader" section. It is clear that she wrote this book not only to gather information but how to write it down. The outline was specifically designed to help young readers write their report. I can remember my personal struggles with starting a report back in the day. So providing an outline helps with the process. I definitely recommend this book for 4th grade and above.

Native Ways : California Indian Stories And Memories Book Review

Native Ways was edited by Malcolm Margolin and Yolanda Montijo and published by Heyday Books in Berkeley,California. Copyrighted 1995. With only 116 pages, this book would be great for ages 9 and up. Plenty of pictures, sketches, and a map of the tribes in California. I like that it incorporates all of California tribes giving information on a few here and there. I have studied Chumash,Cahuilla,Serrano,Gabriello/Tongva,and Cupeno. But I know very little on the Northern and Central California tribes. There's some really cool stories in this book as well. It is easy very easy to read. It's focused on all aspects of life for Native Americans from foods they have in common and how chiefs are chosen,how they hunted,how different tribes built their boats for the ocean or rivers, trading, status of wealth,their beliefs, skills and art. As well as some history on the missions and a brief present day history. This is another book I plan to add to my personal library of historical books of California. Yes, I specialize in California history,but generally love to see how all history ties together.