The Colorado Coalfield War: Massacre at Ludlow

Gr 6–8—Filled with photographs and illustrations and told from the perspective of the working class, this account of the 1914 Ludlow Massacre in Colorado informs readers about the massacre and labor relations in the early 20th century. Huxman begins with a profile of Louis Tikas, a Greek miner who liaised with the union. Discussions of coal, mine conditions, and labor relations provide context for readers. Huxman further connects students with the event and the period by interweaving balanced profiles of President Woodrow Wilson, John D. Rockefeller Jr., the United Mine Workers, Mother Jones, and the last survivor of the massacre, Mary Benich McLeary. There are a few missteps, such as when the author writes that child labor laws were not being enforced but doesn't mention specific laws. Huxman effectively uses photographs, like the "Death Special" vehicle; charts, such as fatalities by industry; and illustrations to support the text. All of the photographs are credited at the end, yet no bibliography or source notes are included. (The author's note includes a thank you to the Pikes Peak Library District for access to their online materials and databases and for their research assistance.)