A Picture Book of Sam Houston
(Picture Book Biography)

At the battle of San Jacinto during the Texas revolution against Mexico, Sam Houston famously declared, "We are Texans.... If you wish to fight, here is your chance and now is the time.... Remember the Alamo!" But Houston's life was filled with many other formidable victories and setbacks, which are explored in this concise but comprehensive portrait of the American patriot. Houston (1793-1863) lived with Cherokee Indians for three years, was headmaster of his own school in Maryville, Tenn., and was later elected as governor of that state. When his first marriage ended after three months, he resigned as governor; Houston's second marriage also ended in divorce, though his third lasted. Following the victory at San Jacinto, Houston was elected as president of the Republic of Texas and then to the U.S. Senate after Texas became a state. Collins continues to demonstrate his skill with historical subjects, offering vivid battle scenes and detailed images of a dawning America. Ages 4-8. (Mar.)

Gr 1-3--Young readers are introduced to the man who played a significant role in the establishment of the state of Texas. The Adlers' clearly written narrative offers information on Houston's life and political career, beginning with a glimpse of Texan soldiers losing their battle at the Alamo, then leading a victorious battle winning independence from Mexico. The next passage discusses Houston's parents' backgrounds, his birth, childhood farm life, and teen years living among Cherokee Indians. Houston's military and political career is followed as a soldier with the Tennessee Regulars in the War of 1812, a position with the U.S. War Department, governor of Tennessee, and the first elected president of the Republic of Texas. Full-page, colorful computer-generated artwork depicts Texan soldiers during wartime in the 1800s, the lifestyle, clothing and uniforms, and architecture of the time, and Houston's loving care for the citizens he represented. This informative biography is perfectly suited for lower elementary school students.--Janet Weber, Tigard Public Library, OR