After reading Why boys don’t like to read: Gender differences in reading achievement at Lessons in Learning, I decided to look at books likely to interest older boys for the next few weeks.
Secrets of a Civil War Submarine: Solving the Mystery of the H.L. Hunley by Sally M. Walker is fine example of a book with wide-ranging appeal. Those interested in history, marine archeology, the Civil War, naval engineering and/or science will all find something to discover in the comprehensive coverage. It should be noted, however, that this book is really for older children due to both subject matter and density of the text. Several times the crews of the submarine are killed, and in the last case the bones are shown, as well as reconstructions from skeletal remains.
Walker has thoroughly researched this book and her quest for detail has uncovered some truly remarkable stories in a submarine that remained hidden in the ocean sediments for 131 years. For those looking for all the answers, however, be aware that many questions about how the Hunley sank lingered at the time the book was published.
What I found most amazing was the amount of care and effort that went into preserving and recording every aspect of this project. Marine archeologists have to have a large range of skills to be able to accomplish this extraordinary task, from being able to scuba dive to finding out what might stop a old watch. Astounding!
Reading level: Young Adult
Hardcover: 112 pages
Publisher: Carolrhoda Books (January 2005)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1575058308
ISBN-13: 978-1575058306
Nonfiction Monday is a blogging celebration of nonfiction books for kids. For more information, stop by Picture Book of the Day. This week’s post is at Book Aunt.