School Library Journal Review
Gr 4-8-Engaging trips through time and space. Each book begins with a brief introduction that provides background on the time period followed by information on each civilization's culture, geography, economy, and history. Recipes, games, time lines, and who's who lists are also included. Sidebars provide fascinating tidbits. Mayan Civilization covers the period A.D. 600-800. Interesting facts and discussions (the use of cacao beans for money, the belief in human sacrifice, and the Mayan concept of beauty) will maintain reader interest. Colonial America contains information about schools, medicine, forms of punishment, and various group activities such as chopping bees. Civil War provides a glimpse of both civilian and military life. Black-and white and full-color photographs of sites and artifacts and drawings enliven these narratives. Excellent sources for reports and projects.-Lana Miles, Duchesne Academy, Houston, TX (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Horn Book Review
Day explores American culture in these guides to the past. The chatty texts, which are written as if for time-traveling visitors, provide facts about daily life, famous figures, customs, government, currency, fashion, local manners, health, and food. Maps, archival artwork and photographs, and witty captions extend the texts. Bib., glos., ind. (c) Copyright 2010. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
