Gr. 5^-8. The American Civil War becomes accessible in the familiar decision of Eyewitness books. The double-page spread format uses brief text, many illustrations, and lengthy captions in very small type. Illustrations include period photographs, engravings, and documents, as well as photos of artifacts such as rifles, flags, and uniforms. Arranged roughly chronologically, the book begins with discussions of states' rights and slavery and ends with Reconstruction. In between, it discusses some major battles but focuses primarily on broader topics, such as "The Underground Railroad," "Great commanders," and "Army camp life." A highly visual treatment of the war. --Carolyn Phelan

Gr 4 Up-This illustrated history offers a stunning array of reproductions and photographs of the sites, people, and artifacts associated with the war. The book is divided into 29 two-page chapters covering such topics as the slavery debate, the election of 1860, raising armies, camp life, women during the war, Gettysburg, and the Confederacy surrender. A paragraph of text introduces each topic and informative, often lengthy, captions accompany the numerous black-and-white and full-color illustrations. This title will make an outstanding addition to collections of Civil War history and will draw visual learners. The many dramatic photos may inspire students to seek more in-depth material.-Patricia Ann Owens, Wabash Valley College, Mt. Carmel, IL (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

In a series of crowded double-page spreads, this book analyzes some of the major issues surrounding the war (slavery, secession, states' rights) and some related military, social, and political issues (women's roles, medical treatment, Union and Confederate war weapons, and camp life). Colorized archival photos, engravings, and illustrations compete for space with detailed captions printed in small type. Ind. From HORN BOOK Spring 2001, (c) Copyright 2010. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.