School Library Journal

11/01/2017
Gr 9 Up—The unresolved problems of the "war to end all wars" are the topics of this set, which examines how each was affected by or influenced the short-lived peace before the First and Second World Wars. The books provide a wealth of detail, objectively describing the roots of each conflict or problem, its resolution or lack thereof, its impact on the interwar period and contribution to the instability that led to the Second World War, and its long-term consequences. Great Depression and Women's Suffrage are focused on the United States and aren't as strong as the others, which show more direct linkage to the outbreak of war in Europe. The reading levels are high, and the language and phrasing are formal and somewhat stilted, which will limit the audience to the most advanced readers. The visuals throughout the series are of average quality, and there aren't many maps included. VERDICT Additional choice for research reports.