In 1492

Oh my! This is one of my favorite read alouds. It tells the story in rhyme. It touches on many important point such as: Columbus getting lost and the crowded conditions using humor. The "cartoony" pictures are engaging. I have used this in grades 2 through 5 with of course different reactions in each grade.

I borrowed this book to read to my son and daughter (4 and 6 respectively) as part of our Columbus Day studies. One of the things that I like about it is the fact that there is a simple rhyme that they can memorize. In addition, the poem itself gives us things to talk about and the author manages to accomplish a lot in her few words. Ms. Marzollo talks about two important dates (1492 and October 12th, when they saw land), about where they sailed from, the weather, how many men were in the crew, navigation, how Columbus had been looking for India but found the Bahamas, and how this was just the first of several trips he made. Four Stars. Pastel art runs from edge to edge. Very Good Read-aloud. Since it is a poem there is no in depth analysis of events, but the book gives a summary that is a great jumping off point for various discussions. A nice book for young children. A few lines follow so you can judge for yourself. In fourteen hundred ninety-two Columbus sailed the ocean blue. He had three ships and left from Spain; He sailed through sunshine, wind, and rain. He sailed by night; he sailed by day; He used the stars to find his way. A compass also helped him know How to find the way to go.

A student brought the book to share with the class and it took over the whole day.It produced a remarkable understanding of the adventures of Christopher Columbus. My kindergarteners loved it and so did I.

This clear, concise tale of Christopher Columbus' historical voyage is wonderfully written and beautifully illustrated. The book's characters come alive for the young reader! Young children will delight in reading this tale over and over!