The American Scene : Events

Full set total of 8 books

U.S. history is cleverly depicted as an illustrated time line in this set, designed for students in grade four and up. Overall arrangement is chronological, from "Before Independence: To 1775 "(volume 1) to "America Today: 1983^-" (volume 9). Each entry, from Watson Brake Mounds (built around 5,400 years ago) to The Clinton Scandal, has a uniform format, consisting of a captioned color illustration; a fact box containing a small map and a brief description; a time line that indicates the general time period; a three-or four-paragraph article; and a "did you know" paragraph with related information.

Entries fall into several categories, including "Important Events," "Notable People," and "America at War," each identified with color coding and icons. There is an eclectic mix of information, with entries on a sod house, the Boston Strangler, fallout shelters, and the murder of John Lennon. An index to the entire volume set can be found in each of the individual volumes.

Though the set is well organized and the design impressive, there is very little substance here. This is definitely a starting point for inquiry, not a destination. Not a necessary purchase.

Grade 4-7-This set features chronologically arranged one-page entries that focus on a single event, year, person, or group in American history from before Independence to the 1990s. Each page includes a fact box providing who, what, when, and where information; two-to-three paragraphs of text; a full-color or black-and-white photo, reproduction, or drawing; a small, captioned map; and a "Did you know..." fun fact. Information is accurate and objective and minorities and women are well represented. Additionally, the entries are color coded according to what category they fall into: events, people, discoveries and inventions, famous places, arts and entertainment, military history, daily life, or cultural diversity. This eclectic mix of topics offers a broad view of American history that moves beyond the deeds of great men. However, it's not for serious research. The synopses provide only the most general of overviews and there are no suggestions for further reading. Most encyclopedias offer more background, analysis, and bibliographic information. On balance, the attractiveness and scope of the volumes compensate for their content weaknesses, making them a good additional purchase. The set will be popular with browsers and serve as an excellent resource for students in search of ideas for papers. Each volume has an extensive index.
Mary Mueller, Rolla Junior High School, MO
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.