From School Library Journal
Grade 7-12-- Lively, clear, and thorough, these two volumes effectively capture the American experience in the two World Wars. The text of World War I in particular is nicely balanced. Bosco concisely discusses all aspects of the war, from military logistics and political maneuvering to the horrors of the battlefield. Liberal use of personal narratives and quotes along with battle descriptions and statistics gives readers a vivid sense of life in wartime. By focusing on a few key clashes, like Belleau Wood and the Argonne, the author further enlivens the text. World War II also provides a broad, well-organized overview. Chapters on specific aspects, such as the effect of the war on women and minorities, are smoothly interspersed into the narrative. Less attention is paid to the personal experiences of individuals, though, so this title is not quite as fascinating as World War I . The opening chapter, which describes Szilard and Einstein convincing Roosevelt that an atomic bomb could be made, is more confusing than exciting, and does little to capture readers' interest. Each title includes a few maps and many black-and-white photos that support the text. World War II 's index is thorough, but the one in World War I is less complete. Miguel's Second World War (1987; o.p.) and World War I (1985; o.p., both Silver Burdett), along with Messenger's Second World War (Watts, 1987; o.p.) are adequate resources with color illustrations, but do not match the thorough, readable texts of these newer titles. --Steven Engelfried, Pleasanton Library, CA
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
