The Prairie was on Fire: Eyewitness Accounts of the Civil War in the Indian Territory

by Whit Edwards. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma Historical Society, 180 p. With app., bibl., notes, ind., photos. ISBN 0-941498-72-7; $24.95 [Available from the Museum Store of the Oklahoma Historical Society, 2100 Lincoln Blvd., Oklahoma City, OK 73105].

Unique in its approach, this book brings together the eyewitness accounts of enlisted men, officers and civilians in Indian Territory during the Civil War. Organized by engagements, the author juxtaposes written accounts from both sides of a dispute. He editorializes on the information found in these accounts by filling in background information with details of their combat exploits. Included are photographs of over seventy of the officers and enlisted men whose writings were compiled. Extensive bibliography and index. [JGI]

The Water Quality Primer

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma Conservation Commission, Water Quality Division, 47 p. photos. [Available from the Commission, 5225 N. Shartel, Suite 102, Oklahoma City, OK 73118].

We may know that water pollution is a serious issue, but we don’t always know why various pollutants are considered a problem. This primer provides basic, up-to-date information to help citizens understand the ecology of streams, rivers, lakes, wetlands and groundwater. It describes the sources of pollution and how these pollutants are affecting our water resources. Broad topics are defined along with many photographs illustrating the concept. The Commission emphasizes that education is the key to keeping our water clean. [JGI]

Reading Topographic Maps: Activities for Earth Science Teachers and Students

by James R. Chaplin. Norman: Oklahoma Geological Survey, University of Oklahoma. 82p. Publication 7. ISSN 0160-8746. With ill., maps (some col.) $12.[Available from Oklahoma Geological Survey, Sarkeys Energy Center, 100 E. Boyd, Room N-131, Norman, OK 73019-0628].

This informative publication explains how to read topographic maps and use them in everyday life. Although intended primarily for teachers and students, the straightforward definitions make this a valuable resource for anyone interested in improving their map reading skills. The main text introduces basic mapping principles and includes guides to resources for further study. Several activity sheets are also included. Some activities have been tailored to particular areas within Oklahoma but questions and exercises may be adapted to most any geographic area and topographic map. [JGI]