The Eiffel Tower

Gr 6–10 In this series, interesting and historically significant structures are detailed, described, and placed in an appealing and well-explained historical context. Each book is organized chronologically, with a strong focus on historical facts, cultural significance, and any controversy or challenge that surrounds the structures. The books feature vocabulary boxes for challenging words, strong color pictures and diagrams, as well as boxes throughout with additional detail and primary source material. These books would appeal to students interested in archeology and architecture, and could provide strong extension materials for teachers looking to supplement a history text. Bibliography. Websites. Index.

Gr 6–8 Buildings that have captured the hearts, minds, and imaginations of their respective builders and visitors for centuries and have become emblematic of their cultures are featured in these titles. The colorful and dramatic historical, political, and social forces underlying their construction are well explained. The slim volumes capture the period in which the structures were created and help readers understand why they are still important and relevant today. Students will glean many useful and fascinating facts about the actual construction processes. Especially noteworthy are the well-written titles about the Globe Theater, which will be useful for units on Shakespearean literature, Elizabethan history, and drama; and about the World Trade Center, which will supplement studies on New York City and current political and social movements. The writing in The Great Wall is not as felicitious as in the other titles, and a pronunciation guide in this work, as in Eiffel Tower, would have been helpful. All four books include time lines, though their layouts are confusing: words defined in context, but not always on the page on which they first appear; and lists of fast facts.