Scholastic Encyclopedia of the United States at War

Rating:
Summary: A valuable history reference for schools and homes.
Review: This encyclopedia fills an important gap in the libraries of many schools- it chronicles the participation of the US in all the major wars, from the American Revolution to the Gulf War. Very different from the overly gung-ho, dusty tomes which turn many students off history altogether, this book uses photographs and contemporary illustrations to great effect, and provides a very balanced view of the role of the US- this book is not afraid to discuss how the Native Americans were cheated out of their lands, media censorship in wartime, anti-Vietnam protests, and other issues that show the other side of wartime. While doing that, it also provides an account of the military strategies and campaigns, using maps to great effect. The book also provides short looks at important military figures, and ordinary soldiers, and explains each campaign in a fresh way that is guaranteed to hook student readers. I believe this book would also be ideal for any adult interested in the history of the US. Authors Tom Jones and June English have previously written a book together, 'Mission: Earth', about Tom Jones's experiences as a US astronaut- also highly recommended. I hope that this duo will continue to write books so useful for modern schools.