Galford, Ellen. The Trail West: Exploring History Through Art (Picture That). Chanhassen, MN : Two-Can Publishing, 2005.
Plot: Through the use of art, Galford encourages readers to learn more about the history of the Old West. Some images reflect popular opinions of the time, while others are desperate attempts to preserve disappearing cultures. All reflect the ideals, fears, and expectations of the participants in a unique period of United States' history.
Genre: Art, History
Reading Level: Grades 5-7
Similar Titles: Picture That series, War, Terrible War: 1855-1865 A History of US Book 6
Personal Thoughts: I felt skeptical when I began to read the book. Attempting to describe history through art seemed faulty, since art almost always romanticizes actual events. Then, I realized the art came from actual artists of the time. The images reflect how people of the time viewed their world, instead of what actually occurred. As a result, careful readers can gain a better sense of why people responded the way they did to the stories of the Old West, both good and bad. Additionally, the book focuses on some of the minor details withing the images, revealing aspects about the cultures meeting and clashing within the Western United States. The text does not provide a solid timetable or detailed descriptions of the events, but it does show the prevalent motivations and emotions present in the journey west.
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