The Middle Ages: A Watts Guide for Children (Reference) (Paperback)

~ William Chester Jordan (Editor) "Agriculture is the growing of crops and the raising of farm animals..." (more)
Key Phrases: holiest city, Middle Ages, Byzantine Empire, Western Europe (more...)

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

Gr 4-7-Explanations and descriptions of major events, people, places, and cultures from A.D. 476-1500. The well-written, alphabetically arranged entries range from "Agriculture," "Alhambra," and "Thomas Aquinas" to "Warfare," "West African Kingdoms," and "Women." Most are about one page in length, with some exceptions, such as "Crusades" and "Islam," which are longer. The information is very basic, which does lead to some generalizations and possible confusion, and cross-references are, on occasion, wanting. For example, "Papacy" lacks a cross-reference to "Christianity" and the entry on the "Reconquest of Spain" might be more easily identifiable under Spain or Moors. Attempts to show a global perspective (rather than just Europe and the Middle East) are weak. There are no time lines, and the text does not explain the use of the alternative term "medieval." A colorful photograph, reproduction, or drawing accompanies almost every article. Some young historians will enjoy stumbling across new information, but the book doesn't reveal much on relatively popular topics such as Robin Hood or King Arthur. While it may serve as a supplemental source in some libraries, it will not replace Tony Gregory's The Dark Ages and Fiona MacDonald's The Middle Ages (both Facts On File, 1993).-Andrew Medlar, Chicago Public Library, IL

Copyright 2000 Cahners Business Information, Inc.

Product Description

A guide to the Middle Ages, discussing events, people, and practices around the world from 500 to 1500. --This text refers to the Library Binding edition.

Product Details

• Reading level: Young Adult
  
• Paperback: 112 pages
• Publisher: Franklin Watts (September 2000)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0531164888
• ISBN-13: 978-0531164884
• Product Dimensions: 10.9 x 8.6 x 0.3 inches
• Shipping Weight: 12.8 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 3.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #678,231 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

9 of 10 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars Redefining History, September 13, 2004

By	M. White "Magistra" (United States) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

Beware of the glorification of Islam and Muslims. Perhaps, "Islam in the Middle Ages" would more accurately describe the focus of the editor.

As a teacher who appreciates the integration of fine art with history, this books good use of such would have been more greatly appreciated if credit would have been given to the artists.

3.0 out of 5 stars Reference Book, August 19, 2009

By	J. Grambo "Teacher" (Indiana, USA) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

One hundred articles organized encyclopedia-style, with photos and illustrations. Heavy on text, but the text is well written for middle and high schoolers. Useful as a reference, but not for entertainment. Grades 6-12.