Library Journal Review

Four hundred years of American history are streamlined into this overview of a selection of historical events. Actor Liev -Schreiber's narration is considered and reflective, Popular Mechanics' James Meigs provides context for inventions such as the cotton gin and computers, and the various commentators (including Colin Powell, Tom Brokaw, and Donald Trump) speak confidently. At times, however, the celebrity commentary seems incongruous, such as P. Diddy on the qualities of the American worker or Michael Douglas talking about pilgrims and the Jamestown Colony. The rapid-fire CGI reenactments appear tailored to captivate a younger generation rather than relate specific facts. Much actual history is omitted (mostly wars, e.g., the Korean War and the War of 1812), but then this title does seem intent on presenting a story in an entertaining manner rather than documenting history. A free teacher's guide and other materials are available on the website (bit.ly/dfq0pk). All told, an interesting if flawed introduction to American history.-Denise A. Garofalo, Mount Saint Mary Coll. Lib., Newburgh, NY (c) Copyright 2011. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.