Linda Lowery

Before Europeans came to the southeastern region of the United States, American Indian nations lived off the rich and varied land. Many still call it home. Find out what these groups have in common and what makes each nation unique.

As a successful former slave, Clara Brown used her money to help other freed slaves get a new start in life. In 1859 Clara bought her own freedom and headed west to Colorado to find her daughter, who was sold when she was just a little girl. Clara didn't find her daughter there, but she did get rich. The people she helped became her family, and she became known as "Aunt" Clara Brown.

The Day of the Dead is a special holiday celebrated in many places like Mexico and parts of the United States to honor people who have died. It's celebrated between October 31 and November 2 and there are costumes, but no one says, "trick-or-treat." There is candy, but this candy is shaped like coffins and skeletons. People picnic in cemeteries, go to parades, set off fireworks, and bake special breads and meals to remember friends and family members...

Before Europeans arrived in the California region, more than twenty independent American Indian groups called it home. Many twenty-first century American Indians still do. Find out what these nations have in common and what makes each of them unique.

When Spanish explorers came to the Southwest region of the United States, they found more than 20,000 American Indians already living in the region. Learn about the history and culture of the native peoples of the Southwest.

The various activities and celebrations of the Mexican holiday that honors people who have died are introduced in this simple, festive beginning reader. The history of the holiday, as well as the traditions are also explained.

Introduces the holiday Cinco de Mayo and describes how it is celebrated in Mexico and in the United States.