Mongol warriors were expert archers. They used this skill in battle, where opponents met a slew of arrows born of Mongol cunning and craft. Howling arrows whistled as they descended into enemy lines, sending assailants into a panic. In this book, kids will learn more about Mongol weapons, gear, and training.
The samurai were the warrior class of feudal Japan for hundreds of years. They led other soldiers to war on the battlefield, and their weapons and armor made them formidable opponents. Readers will learn the history of the samurai, their weapons and fighting styles, and what ultimately led to their decline.
Every male in the Aztec civilization received military training. The most feared fighters on the battlefields were eagle warriors and jaguar warriors. This title explores the history of these fierce warriors, the tools and tactics they used in battle, and what ultimately led to their downfall.
For over 200 years, the British redcoats were the most feared infantry on Earth. The discipline with which they fought was enough to defeat almost any foe. Readers will learn about the history, training, and weapons that made them such effective soldiers.
Sprint cars are small, speedy race cars that can be raced on paved or dirt tracks. They can move at over 140 miles per hour! Readers will explore the history of these compact, high-powered speed machines.
Motocross racing and moto-X freestyle both require these versatile cycles. Students will learn about the origin of motocross cycles, how they are modified for racing or freestyle, and how they are used in competitions.
Many kinds of vehicles can be made into monster vehicles. Monster trucks are the most popular, but there are also monster motorcycles, cars, and vans! Readers will explore the history of these giants and see the variety of monster vehicles being built today.
NASCAR has become one of the most popular sports in the country. The high speeds and tight racing draws thousands of fans to stadiums all across the United States. Students will learn about the vehicles that make incredible speed and excitement possible.
Working on cars has always been a great hobby. A combination of horsepower and sleek performance, tuner cars are a thrill to drive. Kids will learn how tuner car owners tweak the engine, body, and accessories of their vehicles to make for one cool ride.
Snowmobiles are powerful machines that can be used for recreation or work. Readers will explore the history of snowmobiles and the technology behind these fast, snow-crossing vehicles.
Karts arent just for kids anymore! Adult karts can reach speeds up to 140 miles per hour! Students will explore the history of karts, kart technology, and how the sport of kart racing is growing in popularity.
Funny cars get their name from their appearance. Their back wheels are much larger than the front wheels. Students will learn about the history and technology behind these fast, exciting race cars.
Street skateboarders use railings, benches, and curbs to do tricks. Eager readers will explore the development of street style skateboarding from the 1950s to today. They will also learn about the equipment needed to safely skateboard and the competitions in which pros compete.
Ever wondered what it takes to ride a wave? Young readers will find out in this introduction to surfing. They will read about the history of surfing, the equipment used to ride waves, and the ways surfers compete against each other.
Have you ever wondered how an Indy car can keep its grip on the track when traveling at 200 miles per hour? Readers will learn the history of Indy cars, Indy car technology, and how these race cars compete in long, grueling races.
Lowriders are more about appearance than speed or performance. They are more like works of art than cars. Kids will learn about the history of the lowrider craze and how it has changed over the years.
This timeless ballad has been part of American folklore for over a century. Born with a hammer in his hand, John Henry discovers his true calling as a steel-driving man but he inevitably meets his match in a race against a steam drill that provides a powerful metaphor for the disruption and loss of innocence created by the industrial age. Thornton's charcoal drawings deftly capture the triumphal spirit of this cautionary tale.
Government leaders help to govern our country, our states, and our cities. They make important decisions, solve problems, and see that laws are enforced. The people they serve elect most government officials. Long ago, there were not as many government officials as there are today because the United States had a smaller population.
Bank tellers help people take care of their money. Long ago, bank tellers did most of their work by hand. Today, computers make their work faster and easier. There are even machines called Automatic Teller Machines, or ATMs. Although convenient, ATMs cannot replace bank tellers.
Store clerks help people shop. Many years ago, stores were smaller and store clerks had to perform most of the jobs in the store. Today, stores are larger and usually employ several store clerks to help. Store clerks today must know how to use computers to do their jobs.
Throughout history, people have recorded ideas and important events in their lives and communities. Methods of writing have changed greatly over the years. Today, computers make a writer's job much easier and enable people to write and publish more material than ever before.
Long ago, it often took weeks for postal workers to deliver mail to people who lived far away. Today, mail is transported quickly by trucks and airplanes, and it usually reaches its destination in a few days. Postal workers deliver mail directly to homes, businesses, and mailboxes.
Actors have entertained audiences for thousands of years. In the past, plays were performed both to entertain and to teach. Today, plays involve the use of lighting, sound systems, and elaborate sets and often have large casts that include many actors.
Farmers are important because they grow the food that people eat. Modern equipment enables farmers to grow more food for an ever-increasing world population.
Fishers have provided food for thousands of years. Long ago, fishers had to fish close to land and used simple fishing tools such as knives, hoes, and spears. With the use of modern boats and fishing equipment, today's fishers fish far out in the ocean and catch a large variety of fish for market.