From School Library Journal
Gr 5-8--In each of these general and fairly comprehensive overviews, Lindop begins with a biographical sketch that details the man's childhood, education, and pre-presidential career. He then covers each administration in a general way, concentrating on major events and the presidents' achievements and ideas for government. The treatment is objective, describing each leader's strengths and weaknesses, successes and failures. Background information is provided as needed, and chapter notes and bibliographies of both print and nonprint sources are included. Although the books are well organized, well written, and concise, their format does little to capture readers' interest. The only illustrations are reproductions of each presidents' official portrait. Carter Smith's Presidents in a Time of Change (Millbrook, 1993) does not include as much detail, but is much more attractive due its numerous photos and illustrations. Charles Beard and Detlev Vagts's The Presidents in American History (Messner, 1989) is similar in tone but less comprehensive. Overall, Lindop's titles are solid choices for reports.
Mary Mueller, Rolla Junior High School, MO
Copyright 1996 Cahners Business Information, Inc.
