The Illinois Chronicles - (What on Earth State Chronicles) by Mark Skipworth (Hardcover)

About the Book

To celebrate Illinois' bicentennial in 2018, this fascinating timeline brings to life 200 years of the state's history. Beautifully illustrated, this timeline unfolds to 4 1/2 feet long and features more than 100 stunning images and illuminating captions that take readers on the Prairie State's remarkable journey. Full color.

Book Synopsis

In celebration of its official Bicentennial year, take a trip through the incredible history of Illinois with this fascinating timeline book that brings to life 200 years of the State's history

Beautifully illustrated and hugely engaging, The Illinois Chronicles' show-stopping main feature is a 6-foot-long, fold-out timeline with more than 100 stunning images and illuminating captions that take readers on the Prairie State's remarkable journey. The informative text is written in the form of nearly 50 "newspaper" articles, capturing important events in Illinois history in an engaging way. Experience key moments such as the birth of Illinois as the 21st state, the Chicago fire, Abraham Lincoln's political rise, the Chicago World Fair, Barack Obama's presidential election, the Chicago Cubs' first world championship, and more. With features such as an Illinois Honor Roll - 36 mini biographies of important people in Illinois history - as well as 27 places to visit, a map, and information on the government branches and state flags, it all adds up to an exciting story of the people and events whose unique legacy can still be felt today.

Review Quotes

"In honor of the Illinois bicentennial, this creative history launches the Chronicles series. Beautifully designed, the pages resemble spreads from a fictional Illinois newspaper and feature 'articles' on events ranging from Illinois' 1818 admittance to the Union to current plans for the state's 2018 bicentennial celebration." - Booklist

"Beautifully-illustrated and hugely engaging - an exciting story of people and events whose unique legacy can still be felt today in the 21st State of the Union. Uniquely informative and thoroughly 'kid friendly' in organization and presentation, The Illinois Chronicles is ideal for ages 6 to 14." - Midwest Book Review

"The learning opportunities within the Chronicles and Educator's Guide can carry on well beyond the celebration year and may be used as launching points for future learning for years to come." - Illinois State Board of Education

"Having an easy to read but detailed and informative narrative in the style of reportage and a timeline is not only unique, but will also be highly relevant and engaging for years to come." - James Cornelius, Keeper of the Lincoln Collection at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library Museum

"We are very excited to share with you The Illinois Chronicles in celebration of the Illinois Bicentennial. Illinois is the Land of Lincoln." - Bruce Rauner, Illinois State Governor

"I found the content to be easily implemented while providing various options that cater to the specific grade level or subject area ... I see many opportunities for cross-curricular lessons as well!" - Rob Ulm, Principal, Jefferson Elementary School

"The Illinois Chronicles uses chronological historical resources in an innovative timeline, creating a remarkable opportunity to teach us about our shared heritage, as well as help us think about the future." - Tony Smith, State Superintendent, Illinois State Board of Education

"An elaborately detailed, impeccably organized timeline follows the main text; printed on sturdy paper, this accordion-folded addition stretches eight pages, with the timeline appearing on one side and an assortment of state facts, places to visit, and famous Illinoisans on the reverse. Significant curricular support is available for educators wishing to add this excellent resource to their classrooms." - Booklist