Seward's Folly

by Melissa Whitcraft

Explores the history of Alaska, its path to statehood, and current issues, including the conflict between those who want to drill for oil in new locations and those who wish to protect the environment.

48 pages, Library Binding

First published September 1, 2002

About the author

Whitcraft has a Masters in Art in Theatre.

Reviews

[Shelly♥ · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is a detailed account of mostly how Alaska moved from being a "Folly" to a vast resource. It covers the initial purchase and then a brief summary of the challenges facing Alaska as it pursues statehood.

Expected more on the purchase and the significance of it, rather than a history of statehood. Still a great book for American history students.

Recommend for upper elementary and middle schoool.

[Carrie Daws · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very good discussion on Alaska, from its purchase from Russia to its battle for statehood to the battle over ANWR. The author comes across as working to be fair to all sides, and while some challenges were overlooked (like the frequent earthquakes and occasional volcanic eruptions), events that shaped much of it (like the gold rush, the fur trading and timber industry) were touched upon to give kids a broad understanding of the state.

[Sandybear76 · Rating 3 out of 5]

children's book about the purchase of Alaska from the Russians.