Life of a Miner

By Bobbie Kalman

Book Overview

Bobbie Kalman, author of the acclaimed Historic Communities and Early Settler Life series, explores the action and adventure that made the West famous. In the latter part of the 19th century, more than half a million pioneers headed west to carve out a future on an unknown frontier. Some were drawn by the offer of cheap land and the promise of religious freedom while others had high hopes of finding gold. Thrilling, authentic photos and full-color illustrations recreate what life was really like for these cowboys, adventurers, and immigrants in this rough-and-ready era in our history. Mining was one of the more difficult ways to earn a living in the Old West. Bobbie Kalman's book The Life of a Miner details the work and hardships of the people who searched for valuable minerals such as gold, silver, and copper. Fascinating text reveals: -- how a hard rock mine worked -- a miner's tools and different jobs in the mines -- hazardous working conditions underground -- miners' rights, homes, and families -- boomtowns and famous mines of the West

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0778700771
• ISBN13: 9780778700777
• Release Date: January 2000
• Publisher: Crabtree Classics
• Length: 32 Pages
• Weight: 0.90 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.3" x 8.5" x 10.8"
• Age Range: 8 to 11 years
• Grade Range: Grades 3 to 6

Customer Reviews

superior mining book for kids

I loved this book! The way it explains the difference between lode mining and placer mining alone was excellent. The drawing and explainations of the stamp mill and how the gold is separated from the rock is my favorite part. There is also background on mining towns, miner lives, and areas mined. Drawings and explainations of how cradles, long toms, panning and sluice boxes work. This book is the cornerstone of my Gold Rush Unit. I have purchased 35, so my entire class can read them together. Wonderful and just right for 4th grade.