A detailed but dry look at an important era in American history. The book contains numerous black-and-white period illustrations, a sprinkling of primary- and secondary-source quotations, and a wealth of information about battles and other events. However, with its textbooklike style and approach the volume fails to bring this complex period to life. Bib., glos., ind. (c) Copyright 2010. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Gr 6 Up‘In explaining the causes and effects of this 70-year period of conflict, the Minks neatly define the roots of the long-running enmity between England and France. How this antagonism carried over to the colonies and combined with the European concept of ownership to result in Native American hostilities is simply and effectively told. While never losing focus of their historical narrative, the authors include unusual stories and facts, separated from the main text in boxes, to keep students' attention. Throughout the book, the cumulative effect of events that alienated colonists is noted. The black-and-white reproductions are generally of good quality; however, there is only one small map of battle locations, and the volume has a textbooklike appearance. The footnotes, glossary, and annotated further reading and additional works consulted lists are commendable.‘Anita Palladino, Finkelstein Memorial Library, Spring Valley, NY (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.