Mary Hazelton Blanchard Wade
The Coming of the White Men: Stories of How Our Country Was Discovered
"The Coming of the White Men: Stories of How Our Country Was Discovered" by Mary Hazelton Wade is a collection of historical stories written in the early 20th century. The book primarily focuses on the early explorers and settlers of America, detailing their adventures and the experiences that led to the discovery of the New World. It aims to instill a sense of patriotism in young readers by sharing tales of bravery, exploration, and the challenges faced by those who came before them. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to a character named Uncle Sam, a beloved figure in the community who delights in sharing stories about America's history with the twins Joe and Lucy. In the opening chapter, he begins recounting the adventures of the Norsemen, who were among the first white men to explore North America. Through Uncle Sam's vivid storytelling, the children are transported back to a time when the land was wild and inhabited by Native Americans, and they learn about the origins of various explorations, setting the stage for the rich tapestry of stories that follow throughout the book.