The Rise of the Cities: 1820 - 1920

July 1, 2001
Gr 6-10-A book that focuses on the broad themes of history rather than facts and dates. After tracing the growth of American cities from centers of commerce along the Atlantic coast to large metropolitan areas, the Colliers outline the reasons for this phenomenon, mainly immigration and industry. The problems and failures of urbanization (sewage, water treatment, and housing) are also considered. One typo was noted on a map: "Evensville" instead of "Evansville." The exceptional illustrations include color graphics and maps, reproductions of photographs by Jacob Riis and Lewis Hine, and period advertisements and lithographs. An accessible, attractive book.-Patricia Ann Owens, Wabash Valley College, Mt. Carmel, IL

Copyright 2001 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

March 15, 2001
Reviewed with Christopher Collier's "Progressivism, The Great Depression, and the New Deal."

Gr. 5-8. Continuing the Colliers' noteworthy series, The Drama of American History, these volumes concentrate on what the authors call "the basic themes of the American story." "Progressivism" follows events and movements during the first four decades of the twentieth century, including the growing involvement of government in reforming business practices, the impact of the Great Depression, and the social policies of Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal. "Cities" traces the development, problems, and increasing prominence of cities in America between 1820 and 1920. Illustrations, many in color, include period photographs and engravings as well as maps and charts. Two highly readable and informative volumes. (Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2001, American Library Association.)