The Panama Canal: The Story of How a Jungle Was Conquered and the World Made Smaller - Paperback

by Elizabeth Mann (Author), Fernando Rangel (Illustrator)

Panama was less than 50 miles wide, yet difficult to bridge by canal -- its swamps were disease-ridden, its mountainous rain forest challenged the most brilliant engineers, and its oppressive heat exhausted the hardiest workers. Engineers found ways to cut through the forest, medical visionaries conquered the diseases, and workers endured the jungle. Yet there were also broken treaties, political tyranny, and the tragedy of thousands of West Indian workers forced to live in awful, segregated conditions.

Wonders of the World series

The winner of numerous awards, this series is renowned for Elizabeth Mann's ability to convey adventure and excitement while revealing technical information in engaging and easily understood language. The illustrations are lavishly realistic and accurate in detail but do not ignore the human element. Outstanding in the genre, these books are sure to bring even the most indifferent young reader into the worlds of history, geography, and architecture.

One of the ten best non-fiction series for young readers.
- Booklist

Author Biography

Elizabeth Mann has written nine Wonders of the World books, an award-winning series. She is former teacher in New York, holds an M.S.E. and is cofounder of Mikaya Press.

Fernando Rangel was born in Bogata, Colombia, and grew up in Queens, N.Y. He earned a B.F.A. at the School of Visual Arts and trained at the Chatauqua School of Art.