The Blacksmith Book

Introduces the tools, activities, and importance of the blacksmith in colonial communities.

Paulette Jackson <%ISBN%>0778707938 - Children's Literature

18th century colonists relied on skilled craftsmen to supply the tools and equipment necessary to run their businesses and households. A highly trained blacksmith who could make anything from a cooking pot to a set of horseshoes ran the village smithy, or blacksmith shop. The shop was built around a forge that always had a hot fire going. Here the colonists enjoyed gathering around the warmth of the fire where they shared local gossip while they waited for their tools to be made up. The education of a blacksmith is explained and the tools that he produces are illustrated in depth. Kalman does an excellent job of showing the craftsman side of the trade. Readers will have a new appreciation for the colonial tradesman's talent and a better understanding of his importance in the colonial community after enjoying this informative book. Kalman is well known for her excellent nonfiction books and The Blacksmith continues the trend as part of the "Colonial People" series. 2002, Crabtree Publishing,