Renaissance People

Gr 9 Up—Well-organized and well-executed, this work guides readers through the years 1400—1600 in chapters covering seven overlapping periods ranging from 25 to 50 years in length each. Each section provides a brief summary of the time in question, followed by 10 to 15 short biographies of some of the intriguing and influential figures who lived then. This clever chronological device makes the book stand out in that it is not an alphabetically organized encyclopedia of the people of the age, but, rather, a guide to the Renaissance as it unfolds through personal actions. The colorful, detailed illustrations, photographs, and sketches throughout enhance the text and often provide additional stories for readers to explore. Many expected historical figures are covered, including Christopher Columbus, Niccolo Machiavelli, Nicolaus Copernicus, and Martin Luther. However, there is also information on lesser-known people such as Dick Tarlton, Queen Elizabeth I's court jester and one of her "most trusted advisors." A valuable starting point for further research and study.—Annette Haldemann, Department of Legislative Services, Maryland General Assembly