New York City History for Kids: From New Amsterdam to the Big Apple With 21 Activities    by Richard Panchyk Order:  USA  Can Chicago Review Press, 2012 (2012) Softcover, e-Book     Reviewed by Bob Walch New York City has a rich, illustrious and long history which is chronicled in one way or another in this guide designed for young readers age nine years of age and older. From a small, 17th century fur trading post on the southern tip of Manhattan Island, through the days of the Dutch colonists and the tumultuous times of the American Revolution to the appearance of an iconic skyline, blackouts in the 1970s and the tragedy of 9-11, 400 years of history unfold on the pages of this volume. Well illustrated with concise, short chapters that discuss some aspect of the city's past, the narrative is enhanced by interactive elements that engage the young reader. The suggested projects range from painting a Dutch fireplace tile and making a replica of Fort Amsterdam to playing a game of stickball, staging a Broadway show or making a batch of genuine New York Bagels. Not only is this an ideal book for someone who lives in the city or on the East Coast where a visit to New York is possible, but it is also a good way to expose the young reader to some of the important events that affected the entire country and not just one city. For example, there's information here on colonial history, immigration, the Industrial Revolution and early American politics. Use the extensive time line at the front of the book to create additional study projects where the young person can research other important events, people and iconic structures (Empire State Building, Brooklyn Bridge, Old Penn Station, etc.). Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more Kids books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews