An American in Texas: The Story of Sam HoustonSam Houston is one of the most colorful figures in U.S. history. After
becoming a military hero at a young age, he embarked on a political career
that seemed destined to send him to the White House. But when his young wife
suddenly left him, Houston resigned as governor of Tennessee and headed west to live with the Cherokees. He later became the dominant figure in the fight to break Texas away from Mexico, winning the decisive military victory against Mexican General Santa Anna at the Battle of San Jacinto. Houston went on to serve as president of the Republic of Texas, then as governor and U.S. Senator from the new state.
Selected 2004 Book of Note by Tristate Young Adult Review Committee
REVIEWS:
"An excellent portrait of the first president of the Republic of Texas and subsequently, a governor
of the state. Following an appealing literary opening, Caravantes crafts an absorbing biography
of this general whose 18-minute defeat of Santa Anna signaled the estabishment of Texas
independence--Caravantes writes clearly about Houston's tumultuous life. Sources for quotes and
a bibliography of books and Web sites help establish authority.
---School Library Journal
"If there ever was a man bound for greatness in his life, it was Sam Houston . . . Teachers and
students alike will find the detailed background information on Houston to be very useful and
interesting. This is a great addition to any Texas history bookshelf.
--Children's Literature
