THE MIGHTY MISSISSIPPI

Aptly titled, but sadly overtaken by events, this beautiful picture book for older readers is a clever blending of a chronological history with images of a trip downriver from Lake Itasca to the Gulf. Done with acrylic on illustration board, lushly scenic double-page spreads include insets showing people, places and additional maps. Text set in boxes explains and amplifies the information given in the illustrations. An unobtrusive timeline helps the reader keep track of major events pictured, including the retreat of the glaciers, the development of Native American civilizations, European exploration, the Revolutionary war, an earthquake in Missouri, the Trail of Tears, the Mormon exodus, slavery, the Civil War, the work of the Army Corps of Engineers in removing snags and building levees and dams, the flood of 1927 and Hurricane Camille in 1969. No sources are given for the information. In light of Hurricane Katrina, the uncritical admiration for modern engineering feats seems misguided, but should not deter purchasers who will welcome this engaging and informative presentation. (glossary) (Nonfiction. 7-11)