George Washington Carver for Kids

December 1, 2018
Grades 5-8 The son of slaves, George Washington Carver grew up on farm in Missouri after the Civil War. A bright child with an early interest in the natural world, he worked hard to get an education and, eventually, to pursue a career as an agricultural biologist, driven by the goal of helping lift up all African Americans. His work led to new products, from paint to peanut milk, as well as agricultural practices that enriched soil depleted by cotton and helped poor farmers become more self-sufficient. From the Tuskegee Institute, where he carried out research and taught for many years, his influence spread throughout the country. Among the 21 activities mentioned in the book's subtitle are making a bowl from a gourd, building a compost bin, and forming a welcome committee for new students, an idea based on Carver's chilly initial reception at an all-white college. Sidebars expand on relevant topics, while the many black-and-white illustrations, primarily archival photos, bring the scientist and his world into focus. A clearly written, informative book on Carver's life and work.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2018, American Library Association.)

Starred review from November 15, 2018
Carver's life and work are explored in meticulous detail in this activity-filled biography.Readers who simply associate Carver's name with the peanut may be surprised to learn how he learned his homesteading and farming skills, that he was an early conservationist, or that he vigorously disagreed with Booker T. Washington at the Tuskegee Institute on some matters despite their common goals. Readers will learn not only what is known about Carver's life and work, but why some details are difficult to confirm (even Carver did not correct what he saw written about himself) and how the social climate of Reconstruction and segregation affected his work. The indignity of having to enter a separate door to speak to a white audience, and of giving the same speech to black and white audiences at separate times, is not brushed aside, but it is Carver's personality, immense achievements, and recognition that shine. Thoroughly researched and honestly presented, this book is filled with enlightening information and is also an excellent example for young readers of how to present historical accounts. The activities are inspired by Carver's life and values, and most are not only easy to do at home, but involve skills readers can build on, like making a rock collection and cooking with weeds.This impressive treatment of a complex, admirable scientist and man provides hours of learning for curious kids. (timeline, resources, notes, bibliography) (Biography. 9-14)

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