Corn is Maize: The Gift of Indians by: Aliki (nonfiction)

This book discusses the growth of corn and its many uses. It begins by explaining that a corn kernel is a seed and then talks about the effects weather has on the growth of the seed. There are drawings to help children understand this corn growth, using correct terminology. The book describes how corn needs people to survive, while other plants scatter their seeds.  It also emphasizes the fact that scientists have never found any wild corn, but only the civilized kind that we eat now. The book talks about the important role Native Americans played in the corn industry and how it was taken back to Europe by Christopher Columbus.

I would use this book with students during a science lesson learning about plant growth, in particular corn.  I could conduct a lesson or an experiment using a corn based product such as popcorn, corn on the cob or cornbread. I liked the book because it also teaches students about Indian culture and how they shared their corn with pilgrims. It could be used with students during Thanksgiving while learning about the Indians and their relationship with the Pilgrims. I liked that the book incorporated different disciplines such as history, science and social development.