Discovering Mission La Purísima Concepción

Gr 3–6—These books combine general history about Spanish exploration and colonization in the New World with information about each mission's founding, operation, secularization, and decline and eventual restoration, as well as content about the associated Native tribes. Clearly written, objective narratives treat Spanish and Native peoples respectfully but describe how mission life and Western diseases caused almost irreparable damage to Native cultures. Each book has a map of the 21 missions and detailed instructions for a model of the one featured. Average-quality contemporary and period photos and illustrations depict missions in various stages but don't always capture the scope and beauty of some of the restorations. There is also considerable content and illustration overlap. While most libraries outside California will find a single-volume history of California missions sufficient, this set is a good choice for libraries that need additional report material.