Discovering Quacks, Utopias, and Cemeteries

A fascinating read! Resor does a fantastic job using social history themes to show how people's hopes and dreams influence social customs and their daily lives. Each chapter includes essential questions, an overview of the topic through several eras in U.S. and European history, and teaching ideas with primary sources. Through each topic and era, Resor focuses on the concept of "media literacy" and shows that even though the media has changed over time, the purpose and strategies used remain the same. -- Jana Kirchner, Social Studies Consultant, JK Consulting; Author of Decoding the Past: Inquiry-Based Lessons in U.S. History and Inquiry-Based Lessons in World History
Cynthia Resor continues to impress with her third book in the daily life series Quacks, Utopias, and Cemeteries: Modern Lessons from Historical Themes. Approaching the topic through a thematic lens provides Resor's hook, engaging students as they dive into historical trends and topics by asking key questions and critically analyzing sources before drawing conclusions. Relevant to today's education trends and the need for media-literate citizens, this is a terrific resource for teachers and museum educators alike. -- Megan Schanie, Manager of School and Teacher Programs, Frazier History Museum, Louisville, KY
Dr. Resor provides another enjoyable, practical, and informative read for educators. Focusing on the social history of quacks, utopias, and cemeteries, readers will quickly discover how relevant these topics are today. Moreover, Dr. Resor provides numerous primary sources as well as valuable insight on how teachers can incorporate these themes to promote important historical thinking skills. -- Joshua Kenna, President, Tennessee Council of the Social Studies & Assistant Professor of Social Science Education, University of Tennessee, Knoxville