A Historical Album of Alabama

Grade 4-8?These books provide a good, broad overview of each state, and, despite their titles, give equal space to past and recent events. They offer quick facts about geographic, political, and economic statistics; places to see; the state bird, flag, etc.; a timeline; list of important people; and addresses for obtaining additional information. The authors touch on economics, e.g., the changes in Virginia and Alabama when cotton was no longer a main crop, and how World War II affected Oregon's economy. Alabama devotes eight pages to the civil rights movement; it also gives information on the importance of football in the state. The books do not have as much descriptive material as the series published by Childrens Press, but they are easier to read. Black-and-white and full-color reproductions and photographs, many from the archives of the Library of Congress, support and help to clarify the texts. The layouts feature plenty of white space for ease in reading, and the indexes are quite complete. Particularly useful additions where there is regional interest, or to update collections.?Margaret C. Howell, West Springfield Elementary School, VA
Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.