Gr 6-9-- Each book provides an analysis of the issues and events making headlines during each of these decades. Fashion, music, sports, film , and other social indicators are included , as is a passing reference to international events. The year-by-year chronology is especially helpful, as is the biographical reference section, which provides brief yet comprehensive listings of the people who shaped each decade. A pleasing graphic layout with a variety of full-color photographs and accurate and concise text makes these eras come alive for students who were born long after them. Coverage is objective, even for some controversial topics such as Vietnam and the civil rights movement. These books will enhance American history courses as an overview of the culture and a springboard for further research. --Anne Wirkkala, John Stark Regional High School , Weare, N.H.
