With painstaking research, an unerring eye for just the right illustration, and her unique narrative style, award-winning author Ann Bausum makes the history of immigration in America come alive for young people. The story of America has always been shaped by people from all corners of the Earth who came in search of a better life and a brighter future. Immigration remains one of the critical topics in 21st century America, and how our children learn the lessons of the past will shape all our futures. The patriotic stories of hope that shape most immigration books are supplemented here by the lesser-known stories of those denied, detained, and deported. Ann Bausum's compelling book presents a revealing series of snapshots from the dark side of immigration history including: Immigrants Denied: The St. Louis, a ship filled with Jewish refugees from Nazi Germany sought refuge in American ports and was turned away, condemning many of its passengers to ultimately perish in the Holocaust.Immigrants Detained: Japanese-Americans were rounded up during World War II and placed in detention centers-regardless of their patriotism-for security reasons.Immigrants Deported: Emma Goldman was branded a dangerous extremist and sent back to Russia in 1919, after living 30 years in the United States. Ann Bausum creates a bridge from the lessons of the past to the present with fascinating analysis of how our past has influenced modern events and current views on immigration.
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"This book was a great combination of historical narrative accounts and historical fact. It was a fast, easy read that was also very imformative. I will say the author provides some questions and/or imbedded/implicit opinions on the future of immigration but not to an outrageous extent."
— Bridget (4 out of 5 stars)
" A nonfiction look at immigrants of the past and today and wondering if we have learned anything from it. "
— Vicki, 12/28/2013" This book gives good overview of some of the United States failed immigration policies of the past, and shows why these failures are relevant for today. "
— Kim, 12/7/2013" Several good accounts of the deplorable actions taken by our country against innocent people in defense of our so called security. Oddly prescient. "
— Chrissy, 6/22/2013" This book is a great intro for older children on the very complex issue of immigration in America. "
— Megan, 5/2/2013" The U.S. as an asylum for the oppressed? Not quite. "
— Kelly, 4/1/2013" Interesting to read in light of todays immigration laws and problems. True stories of people detained and deported for questionable reasons, and some not so questionable. Good resource for immigration unit. "
— Sharon, 2/11/2013" I reviewed this book for Library Media Connection. "
— Sandi, 2/1/2013Ann Bausum writes books about US history for youth and adults, most dealing with social justice issues. Her books have won the Carter G. Woodson Book Award, the Golden Kite Award, a Sibert Honor designation, and the Jane Addams Children’s Book Award.
Richard Poe, a professional actor for more than thirty years, has appeared in numerous Broadway shows, including 1776 and M. Butterfly. On television he has had recurring roles on Star Trek and Frasier. His films include Born on the Fourth of July and Presumed Innocent. Poe is a well-known and prolific audiobook performer and the winner of numerous AudioFile Earphones Awards.