Be a speech detective
By Linda Barghoorn
Introduction by Librarian
Oral History is about collecting and studying historical information using tape recordings of interviewees with their knowledge of past events. But how can we teach young readers about oral history in simple and exciting ways? This book aims to let young readers understand the importance of history. History helps us to analyse and explain problems in the past, it positions us to see patterns that allow us to identify potential dangers and opportunities in the present. It also tries to arouse children's interest by role-playing as a history and document detective.
This book teaches young readers to ask questions and look for clues like a real historian. By introducing different approaches to oral history, this book guides children to look for clues in primary sources such as photographs, diaries, and items made by people.
The author wrote a friendly text with colourful photos that encourages young readers to explore every page of the book. She wrote modestly and engagingly which encourages children to learn more by identifying different sources of information, assessing their currency and credibility. In the last chapter, missions are set to remind young readers to prepare an interview with clear questions and hardware such as a voice recorder and video camera for an oral history interview.