Gr 6 Up--Most of the contents of this outstanding set are drawn from another of the editor's projects, Black Women in America: An Historical Encyclopedia (Indiana Univ. Press, 1994). As a biographical resource for information on African-American women, the Facts On File Encyclopedia is unsurpassed. With more than 1000 entries profiling 950 women, it actually expands on the previous book, which contains approximately 800 articles and profiles 604 women. While the signed entries are not overtly simplified for younger audiences, the general quality of the writing is characterized by such clarity and liveliness that the work is readily accessible. This set does lack some of the scholarly apparatus that is included in the earlier work. This loss is outweighed by the far less intimidating format and larger print. The set is organized by topic, with individual volumes focusing on areas such as literature, business and professions, music, theater and the arts, social activism and politics, and education. Within each book, the individuals, groups, and organizations are arranged alphabetically. Black-and-white photos appear throughout. This set should be in all libraries that serve young people. Large high school libraries with particularly strong collections on American history and culture will want to consider purchasing Black Women in America as well.

Steve Del Vecchio, The Family Academy, New York City

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