Events Leading to World War I

June 1, 2004
Gr 5-8-These brief books present a remarkable amount of information and provide readers with a clear understanding of complicated issues. Aircraft describes the airplane's coming-of-age during the war-from being totally discounted as a fighting machine to the Aces, who became national heroes. The second volume focuses on eight well-known battles that took place before America entered the conflict in 1917, describing the senseless slaughter that was typical of World War I. Short biographical sketches of important figures appear throughout. Events discusses the conditions and circumstances in each of the participating countries. In all three titles, the unbiased texts are illustrated with mostly black-and-white and sepia photos varying from postage-stamp size to full page. Some full-color paintings are included, and maps are used when appropriate. Although its format is more crowded and a little less inviting, Donald Sommerville's World War I (Raintree, 1999) is more in-depth and covers almost everything contained in these three volumes. Kathlyn and Martin Gay's World War I (21st Century, 1997) uses a personal-interview approach for much of its content and has less specific information about events. Hamilton's offerings make excellent introductions to the specific topics.-Eldon Younce, Harper Elementary School, KS

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