Bobbie Kalman's acclaimed Historic Communities Series provides a close-up view of how people lived more than two hundred years ago. Colorful photos, many taken by Bobbie Kalman herself at restored historic villages across the country, help support the fascinating information. Children will have fun learning about:

-- early homes and the settler community

-- what people wore and the crafts they made

-- how settlers made their living

-- how they spent their leisure time

-- the values, customs, and traditions of the early settlers In the old days the kitchen was the center of family activity. Here the settles ate their meals, played games, and told stories with only the fireplace and a few candles for warmth and light. In The Kitchen, young readers will take a close look at the early fireplace and the tools and utensils surrounding it. Domestic chores described include:

-- baking bread

-- making butter

-- preserving food

-- washing clothes