Teachers Resource Books

Produced in association with the Smithsonian Institution, DK's Children's Encyclopedia of American History by David King is a comprehensive overview lavishly illustrated with period photographs, paintings and drawings of people, objects and events, as well as maps and charts. Separate topics-from "The Constitution" to "Terrorism Strikes Home"-unfold in double-page spreads throughout 18 chronologically organized chapters. An appendix includes a list of the U.S. presidents, a chart of key facts about the 50 states, and the texts of the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution and its Amendments, plus the Gettysburg Address.
Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Grade 5-9-A visually enticing and textually fascinating survey. Grouped thematically and chronologically (with overlap where necessary), the 18 chapters span the centuries, starting with 1000-1607 ("Two Worlds Meet"-a look at the indigenous cultures and the impacts of European exploration) and concluding with 2000-2002 ("A New Millennium"-September 11, 2001, and beyond). Chapters consist of up to 10 two- to four-page spreads and open with an introduction that offers a few paragraphs of text, a representative graphic, a brief overview, and a time line. A typical spread contains a colored tab indicating the years addressed, maps, captioned photos, sidebars that elaborate on specific events, reproductions of paintings and drawings, definitions, and cross-references. Appendixes include a compendium of presidents; state facts; and the full text of the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Gettysburg Address. Tied more to themes and historical strands than Chronicle of America (DK, 2000), this book is also more approachable and will be especially appealing to students intimidated by text-heavy resources.
Mary R. Hofmann, Rivera Middle School, Merced, CA

Gr 4-8- Clearly and succinctly written, this Oxford Children's History of the World is a one-volume encyclopedia that captures the essence of historical time periods in an easy-to-follow format. Introductory pages include specific directions on how to use the book complete with a diagram and a wonderful beginning definition of "What is history?" Organized chronologically from the ancient world through the 20th century, each carefully planned double-page spread begins with a brief paragraph summarizing the subject. Topics touched upon include art and architecture, religion and rulers, and science. Copious drawings, maps, and sidebars further explain information and help readers visualize the era. Many of the photos are of artifacts and historical items. Others are realistic drawings depicting life and events of the time. At the conclusion of each historical division, an illustrated time line covering the Americas, Europe, Asia and Oceania, and Africa and the Middle East assists in summarizing the information presented. "Who's Who" pages help place names in history. Children will enjoy browsing through this colorful title and will use it mainly for ready reference. - Susan Shaver, Hemingford Public Schools, NE

`It covers world history from hunter gatherers, to the end of the twentieth century, in a clearly organised, well-written, and lavishly illustrated volume, printed throughout in full colour.' Tom Monaghan`Encompassing the whole of human history, this comprehensive book is a great classroom reference tool for the study of any society.' Junior Focus

`History at a glance which also tackles each topic in some depth. Hugely impressive - every child should have one.' Daily Express