The Tree That Owns Itself: And Other Adventure Tales from Out of the Past

by Loretta Johnson Hammer, James Watling (Illustrator), Gail Langer Karwoski

Georgia provides the backdrop for twelve historical fiction stories.
The twelve stories in this book by teachers Loretta Hammer and Gail Karwoski take place in Georgia from the Revolutionary War period to the present. Fictional characters—often children—interact with the heroes and villains of history, from Olympic weightlifter Paul Anderson, once the strongest man alive, to the pirate Blackbeard; from Revolutionary War heroine Nancy Hart to John Ross, leader of the Cherokee Nation.
This long-overdue collection of historical fiction for young readers not only makes history more enjoyable, it educates as it entertains. The authors have provided a time line to put the stories in historical perspective, a map to show the location of events, and a concluding note following each story that reveals the facts behind the fiction.

Genres: History

149 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 1996

Reviews

[Jane Rattray · Rating 5 out of 5]

“come explore the mysteries of Georgia’s past”…. This book is an informative and interesting retelling of Georgia’s more intriguing history. A fun read that leaves you with a richer understanding of the people of Georgia.

[Michele]

My daughter loved this book.

[Carolyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cute Georgia Folklore stories paired with a few historical facts. Will be great to share with middle school students.

[Mark · Rating 3 out of 5]

Pleasant retelling or, in one case, debunking of historical tales from Georgia's past, especially the area around Athens.