Bradbury Press, 1991.

Summary: A well- referenced account of the adventures and achievements of a great British explorer. During journeys filled with perils and grandeur, Cook "discovered" Australia, Hawaii, and other Pacific Ocean lands and peoples. Many authentic paintings and maps.

Level: Grade 5-8

Activities:

1. As Rhoda Blumberg details the goals and preparations for Cook's first exploration, she writes: "Captain Cook was embarking upon the eighteenth century's version of a space voyage." [page 11] And at the book's end [page 122] she states: "Like spaceships heading for the moon, Cook's sailing vessels had worldwide significance... Research the moon landings. Create a presentation contrasting the purposes, preparations, types of people who participated, expectations, and results. What myths were demystified? What discoveries made? How significant were the expeditions in comparison? Keep notes and in your presentation reveal your major resources.

2. a. Scurvy is often called the sailors' scourge. Just what is it? What are its causes, symptoms, cures, prevention? How did Captain Cook feel and act about scurvy? Explain how his actions affected long sea voyages and colonization.

2b. Read or find someone who has read Red Cap. How did the supervisor of Andersonville Prison feel and act about scurvy? Explain how his actions affected prisoners.

3. Watch the 1992 PBS mini-series on Columbus and take notes on his thoughts and attitudes toward natives, and toward the men he commanded. Also take notes on his behavior toward natives and toward his men. [An alternative would be to read a recent biography of Columbus and take similar notes.] Review The Remarkable Voyages of Captain Cook and write down observations about his attitudes and behaviors toward native peoples, and toward the men aboard his ships. Write a comparison of the two, and your ideas about any similarities or differences. [An alternative comparison could be from accounts of English settlers in New England, such as Five Kidnapped Indians by Anne Molloy, Hastings House, 1968.]

4. Explore one or more of Ms Blumberg's other histories, listed in the bibliography. Describe her style in detail. Now explore other accounts of these histories, including the voyages of Captain Cook. Analyze the good points, the poor points, the overall effect of each account. Describe their styles. Finally, compare the works using the points you have already made.

5. Imagine you are the history editor of Bradbury Press, and that you would like to commission another book by Ms. Blumberg. Choose a subject that both you and she would enjoy. Examine what accounts are available to you about this subject and list where she might go to do her research and what resources she would probably use. Conference with your librarian or teacher and explain your list.

Also by Rhoda Blumberg:

Commodore Perry in the Land of the Shogun.
The Great American Gold Rush
The Incredible Journey of Lewis and Clark

Prepared by Audrey Conant, Wayne School

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