"Information is presented clearly, with a nice selection of interesting detail to illustrate points and a generous sprinkling of footnotes. Numerous black-and-white illustrations include period engravings, documents, paintings, and photographs of artifacts. Photographs showing modern reenactments are clearly labeled. This resource is a solid addition to the existing body of literature."
-- School Library Journal (September 2001) (School Library Journal 20010901)
"The material is presented objectively and provides welcome insights."
-- School Library Journal (January 2002) (School Library Journal 20020101)
"The text is richly flavored with quotes as well. Attractive black-and-white photographs and reproductions illustrate the text. This volume provides a thrilling ride."
-- School Library Journal (August 2001) (School Library Journal 20010801)
"Black-and-white reproductions and maps provide points of reference. Sidebars offer tidbits of interesting information about events, people...This well-organized, slim volume provides many facts for reports."
-- School Library Journal (August 2001) (School Library Journal 20010801)
"The author's lively, well-researched narrative details the structure of the culture. This volume..will be a useful addition for units on ancient civilization."
-- School Library Journal (June 2001) (School Library Journal 20010601)
"An exemplary series entry, this volume does a thorough and realistic job of portraying the realities and horrors...Pertinent primary-source quotations and sidebars permeate the text and are noted in citations. Captioned pictures are scattered throughout. A useful resource for history reports and projects."
-- School Library Journal (May 2001) (School Library Journal 20010501)
Gr 5 Up-Sherrow offers a brief discussion of the beginnings of monasticism in the third century, and then focuses on everyday life in a monastery in the Middle Ages. Little-known facts, such as the various styles of tonsures for the different orders, the types of habits worn by the monks, and food, are included. The author also treats abuses and reforms. There are quotes from prominent medieval historians and from primary sources. Black-and-white reproductions and maps provide points of reference. Sidebars offer tidbits of interesting information about events, people, and monasteries. Little mention, however, is made of the women who sought the monastic life. This well-organized, slim volume provides many facts for reports.
Lana Miles, Duchesne Academy, Houston, TX
Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.