BIRCH , Dinah. The Concise Oxford Companion to English Literature. 4th ed. 816p. appendix. charts. chron. websites. Oxford. 2012. pap. $19.95. ISBN 978-0-19-960821-8. LC 2012004182.
Gr 8 Up–This fourth edition offers 5500 alphabetically arranged entries that have been diligently revised or updated since the third edition. Changes include expanded coverage of lesser-known areas of English literature, such as black British, African, postcolonial, gay and lesbian, women’s, and children’s literature. Significant upgrades were also made in entries covering science fiction, biography, and American and travel literature. Back matter now includes a chronology of literary works extending from Vercelli, Exeter, Cædmon, and Beowolf to the  pro-democracy Arab Spring uprisings in 2011 and lists of Poet Laureates, Children’s Laureates, and literary awards including the Nobel Prize, the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction, Carnegie Medalists, the Man Booker Prize for Fiction, the King’s and Queen’s Gold Medal for Poetry, and the T.S. Eliot Prize for Poetry. Most entries are clear and concise but they can be lengthier when the situation requires it. The entry on William Shakespeare, for example, fills nearly two-and-a-half pages. Many entries have in-text cross references and others direct readers to links on a companion website. The end result is an inexpensive, relatively lightweight volume packed with facts about English literature that some students will approach with the same level of enthusiasm others exhibit when they browse through the World Almanac or Guinness Book of World Records. To compress this treasure trove of facts on English literature into a single, compact volume is a major accomplishment.–Margaret Myhre, Foley Library, Gonzaga University, Spokane, WA

GALL , Timothy L. Worldmark Encyclopedia of the Nations. rev. ed.  5 vols. 3400p. appendix. bibliog. charts. illus. index. maps. notes. Gale. 2012. PLB $696. ISBN 978-1-4144-33905. Online: Gale Virtual Reference Library
Gr 6-9 –The newest version of this ubiquitous, relentlessly utilitarian encyclopedia records statistical and other changes in the geopolitical world since the 2007 edition. Notably, along with numerous minor tweaks, additions include optimistic new entries for Kosovo, South Sudan, and the Palestinian Territories, plus analyses of the events and effects of the world economic crisis and the Arab Spring through the first quarter of 2012. Presented in a format that Gen-Xers and their Boomer parents will recognize from their school days, the information is gathered beneath numbered headings in rigidly organized, alphabetically arranged “country” articles that are grouped by continent, headed with fast facts, and capped by source notes. The endpapers feature color maps and flags. The separate volume devoted to the U.N. offers lists of countries and proper names. Concise, informative word portraits of each country describe distinctive physical characteristics, populations, history, infrastructure, and (in less detail) cultural highlights. Also, in providing such a thorough study of the U.N. and its work, this resource promotes a supranational point of view more strongly than better-looking but more assignment-oriented encyclopedias such as the The World and Its Peoples sets (Marshall Cavendish). Though the changes in this edition are relatively few, this resource is essential for reference collections that lack sufficient access to online country resources.–John Peters, Children’s Literature Consultant, New York City

GROSSMAN, Mark. Constitutional Amendments: An Encyclopedia of the People, Procedures, Politics, Primary Documents, and Campaigns for the 27 Amendments to the Constitution of the United States. 2 vols. 1144p. appendix. bibliog. charts. further reading. illus. index. notes. photos. reprods. Grey House. 2012. PLB $225.ISBN 978-1-59237-999-6; ebook ISBN 978-1-61925-003-1.
Gr 9 Up–This encyclopedia’s coverage of amendments focuses on passage and ratification and includes objective introductions, transcripts of relevant congressional debate, primary-source excerpts from articles and court rulings, biographical sketches of people most involved in their crafting and passage, and “America at That Time” sections that look at culture and life when each amendment was passed. Although the premise is good, the material suffers from numerous flaws. The 10 amendments of the Bill of Rights are grouped in a single chapter, which limits treatment of the laws, court cases, and societal norms that have defined them. A much more significant problem is that most of the background and analysis relies upon and cites dated scholarship and sources. This deprives users of current research and fails to adequately address important developments, such as the Supreme Court’s incorporation of Bill of Rights protections into state actions through the due process clause of the 14th Amendment, which have occurred in the last 50 years. Many of these dated sources are written in an old-fashioned style that will have little appeal to students, and some discussions of legal issues are so complex that even the most advanced high school students will struggle to understand them. Photos and illustrations are poorly reproduced and many lack captions. Most student research about constitutional amendments is centered on the changes they brought rather than on their creation and ratification, and this set pays scant attention to those changes.–Mary Mueller, formerly at Rolla Junior High School, MO

HAMON , Gwenaëlle, ed. My First Atlas: Discovering Our World. tr. from French by Susan Allen Maurin. 80p. index. maps. Auzou. 2012. Tr $18.95. ISBN 978-2-7338-2148-0.
K-Gr 2—At first glance, this atlas is enormously appealing, with a colorful graphic style and not too much text. The first section, “Our World,” features a simple world map and basic information about climate, plants, and population. Next come the continent sections, each of which offers land and country maps and snippets of information about the climate, plants, animals, history and population, and customs of the area. An activity such as a quiz or maze and a folktale wrap up each section. Unfortunately, the information is simplified so much that it is scattershot and comes across as discrete factoids instead of giving readers a cohesive sense of each continent and its people. In addition, the text contains several typos that emphasize the slipshod production.–Kathleen Kelly MacMillan, Carroll County Public Library, MD

HUDSON , David L., Jr. The Handy History Answer Book. 3rd. ed. 560p. charts. illus. index. maps. photos. reprods. Visible Ink Pr. 2012. pap. $21.95. ISBN 978-1-57859-372-9.
Gr 8 Up–This update of the 2006 edition retains the question-and-answer format of previous editions, with answers ranging from a single paragraph to about a page in length. Topics are an interesting mix of events, people, and ideas, and chapters are arranged chronologically. Most topics are unchanged, but sports, which was formerly covered in “Culture and Recreation,” now has a section of its own. New questions are added throughout, most of which fill gaps in information, provide more diverse coverage of ethnic groups and international topics, or discuss recent events–the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill, for example. Some questions about ongoing controversies, such as the Guantanamo Bay prison, have been revised, and a few questions regarding obscure and dated topics have been removed. Changes include the addition of bullet points and lists to improve clarity, a smaller but still easily read font, and the removal of the chronology and bibliography. This edition also adds maps and replaces almost all of the black-and-white illustrations, but the new ones are small, dark, and minimally captioned and thus add little to the text. Although generally well written and succinct, this book offers little background and analysis and much of its information can be easily found in other sources, including online. There is not enough new material to justify replacement for libraries that hold the second edition, and, while the format may draw browsers, the material lacks the depth to be useful to researchers, making it additional even in libraries that lack the earlier work.–Mary Mueller, formerly at Rolla Junior High School, MO

MILLER , Wilbur, ed. The Social History of Crime and Punishment in America: An Encyclopedia. 5 vols. 2712p. bibliog. chron. further reading. glossary. illus. index. photos. reprods. SAGE. 2012. PLB $560. ISBN 978-1-4129-8876-6. LC 2012012418. Online: SAGE Reference Online
Gr 9 Up–The first four volumes of this alphabetically arranged set are a collection of articles describing the events and history of various U.S. crimes and punishments, from the Salem Witch Trials to the Enron scandal. Each book contains a complete alphabetical listing of the set’s contents. Volume One also offers a chronology from 1275 to 2012 and a reader’s guide that groups the one- to four-page articles into broad categories such as biographies, crimes, legal documents, the history of the criminal justice system, most dangerous cities, and court cases. The signed articles feature topical subdivisions, are enhanced by black-and-white, informatively captioned photos, and conclude with cross references and further readings. Volume Five presents primary-source materials dating from 1609 to 2011. These include documents relating to a Plymouth Colony adultery case, Nat Turner’s jailhouse confession, and Nixon’s presidential pardon. This volume concludes with a thorough glossary, a resource guide, and an index for the entire set. While not an absolutely necessary purchase, the set could be useful where social issues are part of the curriculum.–Eldon Younce, Anthony Public Library, KS

MORSE , Jenifer Corse. Scholastic Book of World Records 2013. 320p. charts. index. photos. Scholastic. 2012.pap. $10.99. ISBN 978-0-545-42517-9.
Gr 4-7–Kids love lists, trivia, photos, and the “latest and greatest” anything. With a lenticular cover and more than 300 pages of full-color pictures, this book will be well used and well worn by curiosity seekers as well as those looking for tidbits of trivia to impress their friends. It’s not a tough sell as it packs in plenty of pop-culture factoids (like Adele’s record-setting music and Disney’s successful films) and a healthy dose of 21st-century technology (plenty of trivia here about texting, apps, and social media sites as well as the hottest video/computer games). The book opens with records concerning social media and the Internet, followed by biggest money makers and pop-culture topics. State records, nature, sports, and U.S. records round out the title, providing both interesting and useful information. Obviously records go out of date even before the book can be released (this one still includes Lance Armstrong’s seven revoked Tour de France titles). Still, children will eat this book up; be sure to buy enough copies for your anticipated audience.–Sharon Verbeten, Brown County Library, Green Bay, WI

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ANIMAL ENCYCLOPEDIA: 2,500 Animals with Photos, Maps, and More! rev. ed. 304p. bibliog. charts. diags. further reading. glossary. illus. index. maps. photos. websites. National Geographic.2012. Tr $24.95. ISBN 978-1-4263-1022-5; PLB $33.90. ISBN 978-1-4263-1023-2.
Gr 3-6–Covering the animal kingdom in a 304-page book is no easy task; the recorded number of species and sub-species is mind boggling, as well as in constant flux (as extinction takes away, conservation and discovery replenish). This update of the 2000 edition offers more than double the content. It crams in useful fast facts about at least 2500 animals, while easing the information overload with “Field Reports” on high-interest animals and some rather spectacular whole-spread photographs. Before the title dives into the different classes of the animal kingdom, an introductory chapter discusses life cycles and young, senses and communication, migration, homes and habitats, and adaptations for survival. Information about the endangered status of some species and about conservation efforts is also included. Because the book aims to represent as much animal diversity as possible, entries are not listed alphabetically but by animal group within the larger class. Users seeking a specific animal will be reliant on the index to discover whether the animal they want is included or not. Side boxes tend to get buried among the entries, but since the encyclopedia is designed for browsing and discovery, that is a minor issue. The decision to use photographs instead of illustrations, which make up the bulk of the previous edition, adds to the vibrancy of this volume. An excellent addition to school and public libraries alike, for both reference and circulation.–Kara Schaff Dean, Walpole Public Library, MA

Exclamation Mark (Rosenthal) ©2013 by Tom Lichtenheld

Preschool to Grade 4

BEAN, Jonathan. Building Our House. illus. by author. Farrar. 2013. p. 71.

DEFELICE, Cynthia. Nelly May Has Her Say. illus. by Henry Cole. Farrar/Margaret Ferguson. Mar. 2013. p. 92.

HENKES, Kevin. Penny and Her Marble. illus. by author. HarperCollins/Greenwillow. Mar. 2013. p. 76.

MESHON, Aaron. Take Me Out to the Yakyu. illus. by author. S & S/Atheneum. Feb. 2013. p. 82.

ROSENTHAL, Amy Krouse. Exclamation Mark. illus. by Tom Lichtenheld. Scholastic. Mar. 2013. p. 85.

SCHMID, Paul. Perfectly Percy. illus. by author. HarperCollins/Harper. 2013. p. 85.

WELLS, Rosemary. Time-Out for Sophie. illus. by author. Viking. 2013. p. 90.

WRIGHT, Joanna. Bunnies on Ice. illus. by author. Roaring Brook/Neal Porter. 2013. p. 90.

GRADES 5 & UP

CHENG, Andrea. Etched in Clay: The Life of Dave, Enslaved Potter and Poet. illus. by author. Lee & Low.2013. p. 117.

FORMAN, Gayle. Just One Day. Dutton. 2013. p. 102.

MURDOCH, Emily. If You Find Me. St. Martin’s Griffin. Mar. 2013. p. 110.

ROWELL, Rainbow. Eleanor & Park. St. Martin’s Griffin. Mar. 2013. p. 113.

SHEPHERD, Megan. The Madman’s Daughter. HarperCollins/Balzer & Bray. 2013. p. 113.

Reference

SNODGRASS, Mary Ellen. World Food: An Encyclopediaof History, Culture, and Social Influence from Hunter-Gatherers to the Age of Globalization. M.E. Sharpe. 2012. p. 68.

DVD

Hi! Fly Guy. Weston Woods. p. 51.

Show Way. Weston Woods. p. 52.

Cape Spin. Video Project. p. 52.

AUDIO

Barber of the Beasts. CD Universe. p. 59.

Bully Bystander, Bullied. CDBaby. p. 60.

Great Unexpected. Recorded Books. p. 54.

Necromancing the Stone. Recorded Books. p. 56.

Ozomatli Presents OzoKids. Hornblow Grouop/Megaforce Records. p. 61.

Path of Beasts. Listening Library. p. 57.

Personal Effects. Brilliance Audio. p. 57.

Sophia’s War. Recorded Books. p. 58.

We Are America. Live Oak Media. p. 58.

BELL, Jacqueline A. 2013 Almanac for Kids. 352p. charts. chron. diags. illus. index. maps. photos. reprods. websites. Scholastic. 2012. pap. $13.99. ISBN 978-0-545-44782-9.
Gr 4-7–American Idol. The periodic table of elements. The major religions of the world. Only an almanac bold, brassy, and entertaining enough can make all these elements work together. Fortunately, Scholastic’s tried-and-true formula of in-your-face photos and graphics, addictive lists, and on-trend talking points make this book a “want to read” for middle schoolers. It all starts with a catchy cover that’s splashed with images of Angry Birds, Justin Bieber, and extreme skateboarders, all of which will draw in students eager to see what’s inside. And the inside doesn’t disappoint. With full-color illustrations (many of them stock photos) and easily scannable lists, sidebars, and pull-outs, readers (even reluctant ones) will be encouraged to spend time on what they’re interested in and to skim the rest. The alphabetical organization (and user-friendly index) makes the material easy to access, but also unfortunately means that topics such as technology and U.S. government follow sports, and movies/TV/music comes before plants and population. While the information is well-researched, consider this volume a meatier companion to the standbys with massive followings,Guinness Book of World Records and Ripley’s Believe It or Not.–Sharon Verbeten, All Write Creative Services, De Pere, WI

EDGAR, Kathleen J. ed. Alternative Energy. 3 vols. 720p. bibliog. charts. chron. diags. further reading. glossary. illus. index. photos. websites. Gale Group/UXL. 2012. PLB $236. ISBN 978-1-4144-9077-9; ebook $236. ISBN 978-1-4144-9081-6. LC 2011050619.
Gr 6 Up–Updated from 2007, this set covers fossil fuels, bioenergy, and geothermal energy, along with hydrogen, nuclear, solar, water, and wind power. An additional section discusses conservation methods (the use of hybrid cars, alternative building design) along with lifestyle changes that reduce energy consumption. Each volume begins with an identical chronology, glossary, and overview, and individual chapters offer a specific “Words to Know” section, along with occasional definitions within the text. The layout is visually appealing, with color photographs or text boxes on almost every page, which indicates an intended middle school audience, but those readers might be stymied by the vocabulary and concepts, which are often at an eighth-grade or high school level. The presentation is even-handed and sometimes-complex concepts are well explained, offering a discussion of benefits and drawbacks, environmental impact, and issues and obstacles for each energy source. Although statistics and research in the book will become dated, the closing section, “Possible Future Energy Sources,” includes ideas that are just beginning to be explored. Each section concludes with a further-reading list that recommends print resources (many of them from 2005-2009) and websites. A list of contact information for relevant organizations is provided. This reference set will be useful for reports. The index in the print edition is comprehensive and easy to use, though students may prefer the ease of searching the ebook, which is available through Gale Virtual Reference Library.–Maggie Knapp, Trinity Valley School, Fort Worth, TX

HILLSTROM, Kevin. The September 11 Terrorist Attacks. 268p. (Defining Moments Series). bibliog. illus. index. photos. Omnigraphics . 2012. PLB $55. ISBN 978-0-7808-1240-6.LC 2011050673.
Gr 8 Up–Hillstrom’s well-written, objective examination opens with a lengthy overview that traces the origins and evolution of radical Islam, the birth and growth of Al Qaeda and its early attacks on the West, the events of September 11th, and the lasting social, political, and geopolitical effects of the attack, including the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. The next section provides brief biographical sketches of eight terrorists and American political and intelligence officials. The primary-source section includes published manifestos of terrorists, harrowing recollections of first responders and attack survivors, and excerpts from investigations and official reports. Captioned black-and-white photos are dark and add little to the text. Documentation includes chapter notes and an extensive bibliography. Many of today’s secondary students have only distant memories of the attacks, and this book, written with the perspective that time allows, does a fine job of placing the attacks into the larger context of Islamic terrorism and world politics and explaining how they forever changed the United States and its relationship with Islam. It is better suited to researchers than Andrew Langley’s now-dated September 11: Attack on America (Compass Point, 2006) and will also draw readers who want to understand the continuing struggle between Islam and the West, making it a good choice for most collections.–Mary Mueller, formerly at Rolla Junior High School, MO

JANSSEN, Sarah. The World Almanac for Kids 2013. 352p. charts. diags. illus. index. maps. photos. reprods.World Almanac. 2012. RTE $24.95. ISBN 978-1-60057-166-4; pap. $13.99. ISBN 978-1-60057-167-1.
Gr 3-7–This user-friendly annual is arranged in an eye-catching layout by subject categories and offers a wealth of informative text (facts, trivia, experiments, etc.) alongside numerous captioned photographs of people, places, and things, as well as charts and maps. The book also offers learning aids, such as puzzles and quizzes. While significant updating is not apparent, students can find Eli Manning’s birthday and a definition of the greenhouse effect, and learn how to read a food label. This title supplements the Common Core curriculum by making fact-finding enjoyable; it is useful for homework and will be in demand for recreational reading.–Cara Moffett, A.R. Lewis Elementary School, Pickens, SC

JUNIOR WORLDMARK ENCYCLOPEDIA OF THE NATIONS . 10 vols. 3200p. bibliog. charts. diags. further reading. glossary. illus. index. maps. photos. reprods. websites. Gale. 2012. PLB $645. ISBN 978-1-4144-6313-1; ebook $645. ISBN 978-1-4144-9086-1. LC 2011050016.
Gr 6 Up–Introductory material in this guide to 196 nations includes a full-color image of the coat of arms of each one and a guide to the articles. Entries detail general information such as the country’s capital and currency,  followed by 35 clearly delineated subcategories that discuss environment, religions, history, judicial systems, labor, foreign trade, education, and famous people, among other topics, allowing easy comparisons. A geographic profile, map, biographical profile of a government leader, and color photographs are also included for each country, as are key economic indicators in comparison to other nations, including the United States. Each section concludes with a bibliography and websites, and the endpapers display the flags of the countries detailed in the volume. This valuable source will be a boon to geography research and instruction and can be tied to different curriculums such as science lessons focusing on plants and animals or energy and power sources.–Beth McGuire Hempfield Area School District, Greensburg , PA

MAGILL, Elizabeth, ed. Pregnancy Information for Teens. 2nd ed. 400p. (Teen Health Series Series). appendix. charts. further reading. index. Omnigraphics. 2012. PLB $69. ISBN 978-0-7808-1220-8. LC 2011042323.
Gr 8 Up–Using articles reprinted with permission from sources such as the March of Dimes and The National Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy, this second edition gives updated information on unplanned pregnancies. While part one features aspects of the phenomenon as a social issue, the rest of the book provides health tips and options for teens who are pregnant. The chapters are accessible and succinct, often only a few pages long. The title helpfully includes several appendixes: “Teen Pregnancy Resources,” “Assistance Resources for Low-Income Pregnant Women,” and “Education Resources for Teen Parents.”–Joanna K. Fabicon, Los Angeles Public Library

PASTAN, Amy. The Smithsonian Book of Presidential Trivia. 240p. Smithsonian Bks. Dec. 2012. pap. $12.95. ISBN 978-1-58834-325-3.
While many adults know Richard Nixon’s nickname (“Tricky Dick”) and the toy named after Theodore Roosevelt (the teddy bear), here students are offered much more, from the mundane (which president had the largest shoe size) to the more important (how many presidents have died while serving in office). With well-organized chapter headings (“Assassination, Death and National Mourning,” “Stumping,” “Home, Hotel, Parlor and Playground”), there are few aspects of the presidency overlooked–from illegitimate children and other controversies to spouses, pets, and even Facebook campaigns. A smattering of black-and-white photos lends accuracy and interest, allowing history buffs a peek at some of the Smithsonian’s presidential artifacts, including campaign buttons, clothing, medallions, and paper ephemera. While the institution is a reputable source of information, there are a few subtleties that could be debated in some of the answers listed. For example, one question asks, “Which president was accused of fathering an illegitimate child?” The answer listed is Grover Cleveland, and while it is is true that he has been accused, Thomas Jefferson has been too (although those indiscretions have been verified). Such potential oversights notwithstanding, this excellent introduction will interest even reluctant readers in these men by providing historic and often entertaining insights. It’s a great launching pad to a unit on the presidents.–Sharon Verbeten, All Write Creative Services, De Pere, WI

ROBERTS, David, ed. Rock Chronicles: Every Legend, Every Line-up, Every Look. 576p. bibliog. charts. chron. illus. index. photos. Firefly Books Ltd. 2012. pap. $29.95. ISBN 978-1-77085-117-7.Gr 5 Up–Profiling about 250 rock bands or performers from AC/DC to ZZ Top–and including Chuck Berry and Arcade Fire–this alphabetically arranged encyclopedia offers opportunities for quick reference and casual browsing, if not systematic study. Each high-density spread sandwiches a narrative history in tiny type between thumbnail photos of a band’s complete lineup and a color-coded time line that simultaneously identifies chief instrument and years of service for each major member, along with significant recordings. Selected bands get a second spread of small performance and album cover photos. Along with an index of names, the back matter includes selective lists of websites, Grammy winners, and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees. Aside from occasional nods to such groups as A-Ha or Mano Negra/Manu Chao, the editor largely sticks to the British/North American scene, and his definition of “Rock” is loose enough to include Elvis Presley and the New York Dolls but (typically) not female performers such as Joan Jett or Heart’s Wilson sisters. Furthermore, though Paul McCartney and John Lennon earn individual entries as well as collective ones, other influential solo musicians such as Sting, Peter Gabriel, and even Eric Clapton do not. Still, as a source of quick historical background (and where online resources are not available) this might be considered as an alternative or update for the Rolling Stone Encyclopedia of Rock and Roll (Fireside, 2001) or other older surveys.–John Peters, Children’s Literature Consultant, New York City

WOLF, Mark. J.P., d. Encyclopedia of Video Games: The Culture, Technology, and Art of Gaming. 2 vols. 740p. bibliog. further reading. index. photos. Greenwood. 2012. PLB $189. ISBN 978-0-313-37936-9; ebook $189. ISBN 978-0-313-37937-6. LC 2012019936.Gr 6-10–This encyclopedia both expands upon information presented in such general surveys as Tristan Donovan’s Replay: The History of Video Games (Yellow Ant, 2010) and the editor’s Video Game Explosion(Greenwood, 2007), and offers it in a more granular, accessible way. In more than 300 alphabetically arranged articles, the 97 contributors, a mix of researchers and game creators, discuss and reflect on video gaming’s 50 years of history, technology, design, and sociology–as well as, naturally, groundbreaking games and systems, important producers, and professional media and organizations. Along with examinations of (selected) products from Pong to Sony PS3 and densely technical disquisitions on the “JAMMA Standard,” “Z-Axis Depth,” and other expert-level knowledge, articles covering such topics as “Girls’ Games,” “Education (Religious),” “Ludology,” and “Cheating” explore social and psychological aspects of the pastime. Furthermore, articles on gaming in a number of countries and regions of the world provide international scope. Most articles end with reading lists, and a few feature small, poor-quality black-and-white photos. Though the alphabetical table of contents at the front of both volumes is superfluously paginated, a topical listing of articles in volume one and the requisite comprehensive index in volume two will be helpful for quick orientation, and a plethora of boldface terms in the articles functions as “see” references. Drab of appearance but broad and deep of coverage, this resource goes well beyond a narrow appeal to students of pop culture.–John Peters, Children’s Literature Consultant, New York City

BELLENIR, Karen. Diabetes Information for Teens: Health Tips About Managing Diabetes and Preventing Related Complications. 400p. (Teen Health Series). charts. diags. index. websites. CIP. Omnigraphics. 2012. PLB $69. ISBN 978-0-7808-1218-5. LC 2011038652.
Gr 8 Up–Providing primary-source excerpts from reliable sources such as the National Diabetes Education Program, KidsHealth, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, this title offers useful facts and statistics about diabetes. Information is presented in five major parts: “Understanding Diabetes,” “Medical Management of Diabetes,” “Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Weight Management,” “Mental Health and Lifestyle Issues,” and “The Physical Complications of Diabetes.” The tone of the writing is not uniform throughout, as some of the short chapters are reprinted articles that can be quite technical, but all together, this is a solid overview of the condition that will be helpful to report writers and to those looking for personal health tips. A plus is the website information for diabetes-friendly recipes and cookbooks.-–Joanna K. Fabicon, Los Angeles Public Library

HAYES, Patrick J. The Making of Modern Immigration: An Encyclopedia of People and Ideas. 2 vols. 828p. bibliog. charts. notes. photos. CIP. ABC-CLIO. 2012. PLB $189. ISBN 978-0-313-39202-3; ebook $189. ISBN 978-0-313-39203-0. LC 2011026347.
Gr 9 Up–Hayes and contributors succeed in the goal outlined in the introduction: to make the “past intelligible and interesting to those who are searching for fresh insight and accurate information on the assembled subjects.” The 45 lengthy entries, which are expansive in scope, solid in scholarship, and compelling in argument, demonstrate that since the beginning of our nation’s history, many giants of the American intellectual and social milieu have stood on both sides of the debate. The individually signed pieces tackle movements (“Sanctuary Movement”), laws (“The Yellow Peril: The Chinese Exclusion Act (1882) to the Johnson-Reed Act of 1924”), and controversial issues (“Immigration and Customs Enforcement”). Notable figures are given extensive coverage, too; a piece on Denis Kearney, for example, that details the Irishman’s racist and nativist activities, follows one covering Thomas Jefferson (readers are informed that the man “flinched at the prospect of immigrants bringing in strange languages and stranger political principles”). Each essay is accompanied by copious source notes and an expansive bibliography. Excellent.-–Brian Odom, Pelham Public Library, AL

JOHNSON, Cynthia. Bowling, Beatniks, and Bell-Bottoms: Pop Culture of 20th- and 21st- Century America. rev. ed. 6 vols. 1650p. chron. further reading. illus. index. photos. CIP. Gale. 2012. PLB $410. ISBN 978-1-4144-1165-1. LC 2012002579.
Gr 6 Up–With articles on commerce, film and theater, music, sports, TV, food, fashion, and other aspects of life, this set presents the most important people, places, or things in recent U.S. history, decade by decade. The cross-referenced articles, which vary from less than a page to two pages in length, are fact-filled and lively. As well as adding information on the 21st century, many of the articles have been updated with additional further-reading resources since the 2002 edition; there are also more illustrations and they are now in color. Entries are listed in alphabetical order and by topic category. While the “Cultural History of the United States Through the Decades” series (Lucent) offers similar coverage, it provides fewer illustrations and additional resources; Gale’s “American Decades” series boasts more information but is aimed at older users. Students who need information for reports will find good introductory information and a solid base for further research here, and general users will find quick short answers to historical questions. With the push in the Common Core Standards for more text complexity and the use of narrative nonfiction, teachers will also appreciate this work.-–Ann West LaPrise, Huron School District, New Boston, MI

KINGFISHER. The Kingfisher History
Encyclopedia. 496p. Kingfisher. 2012. Tr $32.99. ISBN 978-0-7534-6875-3.
Gr 5 Up–Concise and intriguing, these entries are arranged in chronological sections (“The Middle Ages, 1101-1460,” “The World at War, 1914-1949”) that open with an overview of the period and present approximately 25 chapter spreads each on various events and figures of the era. The material covers from the ancient world to today and includes snippets on the success of Alexander the Great, the Viking longships design that was created to ward off evil, Florence Nightingale’s response to serving in the Crimean War, the birth of the United States, the Cold War, and space exploration. Each chapter features a box listing key dates and pages are capped by a time line that will keep readers in tune with the progress of change. The numerous color illustrations per page include captioned maps and photographs or (on the pages covering earlier times) illustrations of places, artifacts, events, and people. Each section concludes with a deeper look at the arts, architecture, and science and technology of the time. With an engaging writing style and colorful and informative images, this book will have a general appeal that will extend beyond report usage.-–Beth McGuire, Hempfield Area School District, Greensburg, PA

PHILANDER, S. George. Encyclopedia of Global Warming and Climate Change. 3 vols. 1720p. SAGE. 2012. Tr $375. ISBN 978-1-4129-9261-9. LC 2012002545.
Gr 10 Up–With 40 new articles (“Climate-Gate,” “Obama Administration”) and extensive revision to the rest of the content, this updated version of the 2008 edition offers students and, to use the editor’s quaint term, “laymen” close looks at recent developments. The set also examines broad historical, scientific, national, geographical, political, and thematic pictures of climate change’s mechanisms, effects, and controversies. Along with topical entries ranging from “Abrupt Climate Changes” to “Community-Based Adaptation,” the alphabetically arranged articles include separate discussions about each country and each state in the U.S., biographies of major climatologists, and profiles of a large number of relevant academic and other organizations. The previous edition’s color section has been dropped (though the online version of the work features color and multimedia enhancements), but the articles are interspersed with generous quantities of charts, tables, and black-and-white photos. Most articles close with cross-references and citations for further reading aplenty—backed up by an extensive guide to general subject resources and a comprehensive index, both in Volume 3. A high overall level of technical and mathematical detail makes this most suitable for academic environments, though advanced students can manage it. The amount of new material on such a high-demand subject gives this revision a leg up over both the first edition and older resources such as Steven I. Dutch’s Encyclopedia of Global Warming (Salem, 2009), which is for the same audience as this work.-–John Peters, Children’s Literature Consultant, New York

ROLLYSON, Carl. African American Culture. ISBN 978-1-42983-687-6.
–––– . Asian Novelists. ISBN 978-1-42983-688-3.
–––– . Detective & Mystery Novelists. ISBN 978-1-42983-675-3.
–––– . English Novelists. ISBN 978-1-42983-689-0.
–––– . Fantasy Novelists. ISBN 978-1-42983-676-0.
–––– . French Novelists. ISBN 978-1-42983-690-6.
–––– . German Novelists. ISBN 978-1-42983-691-3.
–––– . Gothic Novelists. ISBN 978-1-42983-678-4.
–––– . Irish Novelists. ISBN 978-1-42983-692-0.
–––– . Italian Novelists. ISBN 978-1-42983-693-7.
–––– . Latin American Novelists. ISBN 978-1-42983-695-1.
–––– . Native American Novelists. ISBN 978-1-42983-696-8.
–––– . Naturalist Novelists. ISBN 978-1-42983-679-1.
–––– . Novelists of the Jewish Culture. ISBN 978-1-42983-694-4.
–––– . Novelists with Feminist Themes. ISBN 978-1-42983-684-5.
–––– . Novelists with Gay and Lesbian Themes. ISBN 978-1-42983-677-7.
–––– . Picaresque Novelists. ISBN 978-1-42983-680-7.
–––– . Political Novelists. ISBN 978-1-42983-681-4.
–––– . Psychological Novelists. ISBN 978-1-42983-682-1.
–––– . Religious Novelists. ISBN 978-1-42983-686-9
–––– . Russian Novelists. ISBN 978-1-42983-697-5.
–––– . Satirical Novelists. ISBN 978-1-42983-685-2.
–––– . Science Fiction Novelists. ISBN 978-1-42983-683-8.
–––– . Spanish Novelists. ISBN 978-1-42983-698-2.

ea vol: 275p. (Critical Survey of Long Fiction Series). bibliog. chron. glossary. index. websites. Salem Press. 2012. pap. $29.95. ebook $29.95.
Gr 8 Up–Reproducing selections from its massive 10-volume Critical Survey of Literature, 4th ed. (2010), Salem has repackaged them into 24 paperbacks on various themes. Each volume features an introductory essay and approximately 22 entries on individual writers. Entries open with a brief discussion of “other literary forms” the author employed, followed by a discussion of “achievements,” and then a one to two-page biography. The main body of each entry consists of an analysis of the author’s major works that is compellingly written and could easily be employed as a booktalk to introduce readers to a new work. However, the problems that plagued the original set remain. There is an uncomfortable quirkiness to the selection of authors covered. For instance, in Feminist Themes, there is no mention of Toni Morrison, a writer not only of importance as an African American, but also as a novelist who plumbs the depths of the female psyche and women’s roles in society. The absence of an entry on Shirley Jackson or Stephen King in Gothic Novelists is similarly odd. Though the books make for delightful browsing, and at times illuminating introductions to some of literature’s more important figures, they will be of little use to students in search of academic sources for a research paper. Libraries with access to Gale’s Literature Resource Center or EBSCO’s Literary Reference Center don’t need these works.-–Herman Sutter, Saint Agnes Academy, Houston, TX

TARR, David & Bob Benenson. Elections A to Z, 4th ed. 794p. bibliog. charts. chron. illus. index. maps. photos. reprods. websites. CIP. CQ Press. 2012. PLB $125. ISBN 978-0-8728-9769-4. LC 2012008921.
Gr 6 Up–This invaluable resource on the history and process of U.S. national elections supersedes the 2008 edition by updating its many charts, tables, and chronologies; adding whole articles (“Tea Party”); and revising preexisting entries to encompass significant developments such as the Supreme Court’s 2010 Citizens United decision. The approximately 225 alphabetically arranged articles cover topics from “Absentee Voting” and “Electoral Behavior” to “Beauty Contest” and “Scandals”; they also offer separate entries on black, women’s, and youth suffrage. Entries feature at least one small black-and-white photo or other illustration; multiple cross references; and, often, breakout quotes. The prose is journalistic in style, with some editorial insertions–most notably in the final article, “ZZZ,” which is an analysis of voter apathy with a pointed sidebar passage from JFK’s “Ask Not…” speech. The electoral process is the chief focus here; there are no biographical articles or, aside from one short disquisition on “Ideology,” any general surveys or studies of political philosophy. Nonetheless, capped by a large documentary and tabular “Reference Material” section and a comprehensive index, this remains a first-rate, richly detailed picture of this country’s glorious, if not always rational, electoral system.-–John Peters, Children’s Literature Consultant, New York City

TELGEN, Diane. The Gilded Age. 249p. (Defining Moments Series). bibliog. chron. further reading. glossary. illus. index. notes. photos. Omnigraphics. 2012. PLB $55.00. ISBN 978-0-7808-1238-3. LC 2011048642.
Gr 8 Up–Examining economic and societal inequalities and turmoil, this volume covers the period between the Civil War and the turn of the 20th century, which Mark Twain termed the “Gilded Age.” Following an introduction that suggests research topics, the work focuses almost entirely on how rapid industrialization and widespread corruption led to social stratification, income inequality, and unrest. The first of the book’s three sections is a clear and objective narrative overview with chapters about economic expansion, robber barons and corruption, reform movements, labor unrest, and analysis of the era’s legacy and its parallels in our own stratified society. The biographical section profiles 10 important industrial and labor figures, and the primary-sources section provides 9 from the period plus 2 present-day accounts that offer opposing viewpoints about whether ours is another Gilded Age. Captioned black-and-white period photos and illustrations and occasional sidebars supplement the cross-referenced, sourced text. Rodney P. Carlisle’s The Gilded Age: 1870 to 1900 (Facts On File, 2009) examines all aspects of life during this time period and Sonia G. Benson’s Development of the Industrial U.S. (UXL, 2005) looks at many of the same topics in a similar format. However, this well-written book offers both historical and contemporary analyses, making it a good choice for collections that need report information about an often-overlooked time in American history.-–Mary Mueller Rolla Junior High School, MO

THOMPSON, Bill, III. The Young Birder’s Guide to Birds of North America. 368p. (Peterson Field Guides Series). bibliog. further reading. glossary. illus. index. maps. photos. websites. Houghton Harcourt. 2012. pap. $15.95. ISBN 978-0-547-44021-7.
Gr 6 Up–As other guides have appeared in recent years, birders have latched on to their favorites, but none is aimed so directly at the fledgling birder as this one. The 300 species most likely to be encountered in North America are described on a page each (“adult” field guides usually list several related species per spread), accompanied by a color photo of the bird, two if males and females have different plumage. Notes on habitat and what to look for (markings) and listen for (songs, calls) will help birders confirm sightings. The taxonomic arrangement, covering from waterfowl to finches, is similar to many field guides, so it will be easy for novices to graduate from this title to more extensive guides. The list of resources includes organizations, field guides, audio guides, periodicals, and, in a nod to the times, apps. A great title for both school and public libraries.-–Teresa R. Faust, Vermont Department of Libraries, Berlin

TUCKER, Spencer C. The Encyclopedia of the War of 1812: A Political, Social, and Military History. 3 vols. 1034p. bibliog. charts. chron. further reading. glossary. illus. index. maps. reprods. CIP. ABC-CLIO. 2012. PLB $310. ISBN 978-1-85109-956-6; ebook $310. ISBN 978-1-85109-957-3. LC 2012007054.
Gr 8 Up–Prefaced by short overviews of the war’s causes, course, and effects, these more than 850 alphabetically arranged articles examine relevant events and figures from the Battle of New Orleans and James Madison to the Battle of Emuckfaw Creek and Davy Crockett. Entries range from a few paragraphs to several columns in length, and each ends with cross-references and further-reading suggestions. Black-and-white maps and occasional period portraits and other images are placed throughout; more importantly, most of the third volume is taken up by 113 full or extensively excerpted reports, treaties, and other primary-source documents, followed by further back matter including a particularly detailed chronology of the war’s political and military maneuvers. Students in search of broad analyses of the war’s short- or long-term effects–which were profound, particularly for the Shawnee confederation and other Native American groups who were, without question, the conflict’s worst victims–will have to look elsewhere, but for fine-grained historical information about precisely what happened, when, why, and to whom, the set stands out. By far the most comprehensive single source of information about the (relatively) small scale but significant War of 1812 to date, this bicentennial encyclopedia supersedes David S. Heidler and Jeanne T. Heidler’s single volume Encyclopedia of the War of 1812 (ABC-CLIO, 1997).-–John Peters, Children’s Literature Consultant, New York City

WORLD BOOK. Learning Playground. 10 vols. 640p. further reading. glossary. illus. index. photos. websites. CIP. 2012. PLB $240. ISBN 978-0-7166-0225-5. LC 2011004730 .
K-Gr 5–These craft books, which can also stand alone as resources on culture, math, art, shapes, and animals, open with background information (“What Are Crafts and Performing Arts?”) and inviting images. The activities sections offer clear directions and illustrations and a materials list. Basic stitching, paper cutting, constructing a cardboard flute, performing an Irish jig, and staging a shadow play are some of the activities offered in the Cultural Crafts volume, while addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions and binary numbers, and
other math concepts are presented in an everyday and friendly manner in Numbers. The easy language and clear instructions mean that once children have been introduced to a topic they can try the projects independently. The indexes each include a box with terms dedicated to the activities so that users can jump straight to the hands-on portions of the set. The books can also serve as stand-alone resources that will encourage curiosity about the world and about history. With its vibrant layout, colorful photography, inquisitive writing, and well-outlined activities, this set offers material for a wide range of learners.-–Beth McGuire, Hempfield Area School District, Greensburg, PA

ZIMRING, Carl A. Encyclopedia of Consumption and Waste: The Social Science of Garbage. 2 vols. 1176p. appendix. chron. further reading. glossary. index. photos. CIP. SAGE. 2012. PLB $350.00. ISBN 978-1-4129-8819-3. LC 2011034826.
Gr 9 Up–Singular in scope, this work goes beyond environmental issues to also cover the anthropological, archeological, historical, philosophical, political, and sociological aspects of garbage. The editors share a passion for waste, and experts in the field author entries on a wide range of topics, including the culture of garbage, in more than 40 different geographic regions.
Entries take an interdisciplinary approach; for example, the one on kitchen appliances lists the number of children who have died by being accidentally locked in landfill refrigerators and discusses landlord appliance-upkeep requirements and the environmental consequences of CFCs. Entries include a small number of citations and provide suggestions for further reading. The writing is clear and focused, and it is appropriate for advanced students who have minimal background information on the subject. Captioned black-and-white photographs are included with some entries, and a thorough index and useful glossary make this a good choice for institutions that need reference sources in the subject area.-–Lindsay Cesari, Baldwinsville School District, NY

FRANCESCHETTI, Donald R. Applied Science. 5 vols. 2172p. appendix. bibliog. charts. chron. diags. further reading. glossary. index. photos. websites. CIP. Salem Press. 2012. PLB $595. ISBN 978-1-58765-781-8; LC 2012002375. Online: Salem Science database, eBooks on EBSCOhost, Follett Library Resources, ebrary, Gale Virtual Reference Library, MyiLibrary, Overdrive
Gr 8 Up–Designed to illuminate the scientific principles and processes that underpin modern technology, this resource offers approximately 300 substantial surveys of topics ranging from “Archaeology” to “Apiology” and from “Food Preservation” to “Microlithography and Nanolithography.” Each article opens with summary information including key concepts and relevant fields of scientific study, then goes on to lay out in relatively specific detail the topic’s history, fundamental processes, applications in industry and daily life, typical career paths, and future directions. Each cross-referenced piece also features a box of “Fascinating Facts” (“Fascinating Facts About Sports Engineering”), annotated further-reading recommendations, and lists of important websites. Appendixes in volume five include a biographical dictionary of scientists, a time line (to 2010) of technological milestones, an index of general categories, and a massive bibliography. Though the black-and-white photographs and other illustrations are small and exceedingly rare, the extensive topical index inconveniently appears only in the last volume, and in breadth of coverage this can’t compare to the McGraw-Hill Encyclopedia of Science and Technology (McGraw-Hill, 10th ed., 2007), the thoughtful, systematic entries provided here will amply reward serious students. The print edition comes with access to the full content in the “Salem Science” online database.–John Peters, Children’s Literature Consultant, New York City

JOST, Kenneth. The Supreme Court A to Z. 668p. (American Government A to Z Series). bibliog. charts. chron. illus. index. photos. reprods. websites. CIP. CQ Press. 2012. PLB $125.00. ISBN 978-1-6087-1744-6. LC 2012000642. Online: CQ Press Electronic Library
Gr 9 Up–The coverage in this volume on the highest court in the land ranges from specific court cases to legal terminology and from biographical profiles to a broader look at the Court in the contexts of history and society. Entries–more than 350 of them, alphabetically arranged–are supplemented with factoids, pull quotes, informatively captioned black-and-white photographs, and cross-references. Several appendixes detail historic milestones and Supreme Court nominations and provide a seat chart of the justices, the text of the U.S. Constitution, and a list of online sources that offer the full text of decisions. The bibliography is extensive. A significant amount of substantial material is packed into this single volume, and while the small font and snug spacing may be a bit off-putting at first, Jost’s relaxed style makes this a more accessible read than one might expect for the subject matter. A solid purchase.–Alyson Low, Fayetteville Public Library, AR

The Kingfisher Children’s Encyclopedia . 480p. appendix. charts. chron. diags. illus. index. maps. photos. reprods. websites. Kingfisher. 2012. PLB $29.99. ISBN 978-0-7534-6814-2.
Gr 3-8–The colorful entries in this update range from one to four pages in length each, feature full-color illustrations and photos and subheadings in a large, easy-to-read font and sidebars and fact boxes of thought-provoking information. For instance, the three-page entry on dinosaurs includes 10 subheadings ranging from “Lizard or Birdlike” to “Death of the Reptiles.” An accompanying illustration features a comparison between a Tyrannosaurus Rex footprint and that of a man, and a fact box suggests that, “Dinosaurs may have been warm-blooded like mammals and birds.” Other topics include continents and countries, technology, transportation, animal and plant life, religion, and space. Appendixes include a political map of the world; one- to two-sentence biographical summaries of artists, writers, musicians, scientists, inventors, philosophers, and explorers; and U.S. state and presidential statistics. Extensive updating in this edition reflects recent history and developments in science and technology. Libraries in need of a one-volume general reference for children (except report-writers looking for biographical information) should consider this offering. It will help them choose and narrow topics, and will appeal to browsers.–Barbara Auerbach, New York City Public Schools

NAURIGHT, John. Sports Around the World: History, Culture, and Practice. 4 vols. 1558p. bibliog. charts. further reading. illus. index. maps. photos. CIP. ABC-CLIO. 2012. PLB $415. ISBN 978-1-59884-300-2. LC 2011047997. Online: ABC-CLIO eBook Collection
Gr 9 Up–The first three volumes of this set are arranged regionally and then alphabetically. Volume one covers Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Oceania; volume two discusses sports in Europe; and volume three covers Latin America and North America. Students who need background information for research papers or essays (for example: to compare
U. S. soccer with the sport as played in Italy) will appreciate the readable narrative that is presented in a generous-sized font and that includes a short, current further-reading list. Volume four lists winners in various major sporting events such as the Olympic games. This is a general overview that is extremely broad in scope, therefore there is limited detail and no in-depth analysis. Sports growing in popularity that may generate interest, such as lacrosse, or popular names in U.S. sport history, such as former basketball coach John Wooden, are treated in only a few paragraphs or a single page. The black-and-white photographs are infrequent and unfortunately often too small. Additional.—Blair Christolon, Prince William Public Library System, Manassas, VA

RENARD, John. The Handy Religion Answer Book, 2nd ed. 528p. (The Handy Answer Book Series). chron. further reading. glossary. illus. index. maps. photos. reprods. CIP. Visible Ink Press. 2012. pap. $21.95. ISBN 978-1-57859-379-8. LC 2011050804.
Gr 9 Up–Concise and accessible, this book for lay readers provides elemental, balanced coverage of Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Daoism and CCT (Chinese Community Traditions), Shinto, and Confucianism. The author uses a question-and-answer format, with each question appearing in large, bold font, making browsing for a particular topic a breeze. The answers describe history, beliefs, signs and symbols, leadership roles, holidays and other regular observances, and customs and rituals, dispelling stereotypes in the process. Non-English words appear in italics and are defined within the sentence. Updates from the 2001 edition include combining some entries and making room for updated coverage by removing tangential questions. Occasional black-and-white photographs adequately supplement the text, but are otherwise unremarkable. All considered, this is an outstanding resource for those with a general interest in major religions of the modern world.–Jennifer Prince, Buncombe County Public Library, NC

ROLLYSON, Carl. The Twenties in America. 3 vols. 1067p. (Decades Series). appendix. bibliog. charts. chron. further reading. glossary. index. photos. reprods. CIP. Salem Press. 2012. PLB $395. ISBN 978-1-58765-855-6. LC 2011051370. Online: Salem History database, eBooks on EBSCOhost, Follett Library Resources, ebrary, Gale Virtual Reference Library, MyiLibrary, Overdrive
Gr 9 Up–Including articles about persons, events, movements, and trends that define the era in the U.S. and Canada, this set offers entries on everything from eugenics to flappers. Terms and concepts that may be unfamiliar are often explained within the text. For instance, the U.S. Supreme Court entry provides a brief explanation of “substantive due process” in relation to the legal rights of businesses. Entries may be short articles or longer overviews. The “Impact” section at the conclusion of each signed piece elevates this material beyond the usefulness of traditional reference sets. It succinctly details the enduring importance of each topic, which will help students to focus and to write meaningful thesis statements. Entries end with further-reading suggestions and a generous cross-reference list. Black-and-white period photographs flesh out many topics, and volume three includes useful appendixes such as lists of period musicians, literature, and legislation. The purchase of the print set includes multi-user online access to all content through the Salem History database.—Patty McClune, Conestoga Valley High School, Lancaster, PA

WALTERS, Kerry . The Underground Railroad: A Reference Guide. 226p. (Guides to Historic Events in America Series). appendix. bibliog. chron. CIP. further reading. illus. index. maps. notes. photos. reprods. ABC-CLIO. 2012. PLB $58.00. ISBN 978-1-59884-647-8; LC 2011041517. Online: ABC-CLIO eBook Collection
Gr 8 Up–A conversational tone makes this an engaging cover-to-cover read as well as a solid work for reference; it features gripping stories of fugitives and abolitionists within a factual overview. The time line ranges from 1619, when the first slaves arrived in Jamestown aboard a Dutch ship, to 1870, when the 15th amendment granted voting privileges to black men and the Underground Railroad was officially shut down. Beginning with a broad survey of slave resistance and revolt, Walters explains how abolitionists, clergy, and others felt that the “higher law” of justice, right, and freedom superseded unjust legislation, and this noble cause fueled support across a broad population. The Underground Railroad is described, not as a highly structured organization but as a functional system of coordinated efforts to move fugitives from one location to another. Primary-source excerpts inform readers that slaves became “packages,” volunteers were “agents,” and safe houses were referred to as “depots.” Specific incidents, such as William “Jerry” Henry’s capture in Syracuse, NY, where a mob of blacks and whites tore down the jailhouse door to free him, are fascinating and illustrate failed attempts to enforce the Fugitive Slave Law. Extensive notes, a chronology, an annotated bibliography, and primary-source material balance the narrative, and a general index points students to key people and events. A handful of captioned black-and-white maps and illustrations appears strategically throughout. The primary sources are the perfect length for supporting the use of informational text in Common Core Standards for both ELA and social studies.–Vicki Reutter, Cazenovia Jr. Sr. High School, NY

WEATHERFORD, Doris. Women in American Politics: History and Milestones. 2 vols. 575p. charts. further reading. illus. index. photos. CIP. SAGE. 2012. PLB $225.00. ISBN 978-1-60871-0-072. LC 2011044100. Online: SAGE Reference Online
Gr 9 Up–Presenting the many roles that women have played in American politics since the country’s founding, this thoroughly researched set opens with the earliest moments in the fight for women’s suffrage. Though female political aspirations began in colonial America and scored a great victory with the passage of the 19th amendment, women’s roles in politics did not end with the right to enter the voting booth. Weatherford goes on to provide great detail on women’s shaping of the political climate in every office from the municipal level of mayor all the way to the highest court in the land. The book contains primary-source material that illuminates major figures. The first 18 chapters, covering such topics as “Female Officeholders Prior to the Nineteenth Amendment,” “Governors and Lieutenant Governors,” and “Interest Groups,” present data, usually in the form of lists of women who served in a particular governmental role; a review of just how women achieved the offices discussed; and biographical information on key female officeholders. The final chapter offers a state-by-state guide. A solid addition.–Wayne R. Cherry, Jr., First Baptist Academy, Houston, TX

WRIGHT, David & Jill Wright. The World Almanac Children’s Atlas . 96p. diags. illus. index. maps. photos. World Almanac Books. 2012. Tr $21.95. ISBN 978-1-60057-156-5.
Gr 2-4–Colorful and well-organized, this beginner’s atlas provides a fun introduction to map-reading. A consistent color-coding scheme is employed throughout the table of contents and page headings to help readers keep continents straight, and the authors maintain interest with full-color, informatively captioned photographs and a variety of international stamps. An overview section entitled “Our Planet Earth” opens the volume. Sections focusing on each continent follow; all begin with an overview that includes topographical and political maps and fact boxes, then launch into spreads that address regions, with some larger countries covered on their own spread. (The United States, in addition to a country page, has state pages arranged by region.) On these pages lies the only flaw in the book’s design; while a section may cover several countries, often only a few are selected to be featured with their flag and basic facts, making it difficult to determine which countries are included in the listing without extensive poring over maps. A section of “Quiz Questions” (many of which seem prohibitively challenging even for adults) and an index close the volume.–Kathleen Kelly MacMillan, Carroll County Public Library, MD