(4) 4-6 Illustrated by Mike Collins. This graphic novel tells of young Arthur before he became king. The story draws from the earliest Arthurian tales and contains details not usually included. The comic-style illustrations ably convey the mystical and magical elements; however the layout is occasionally poorly executed, especially when panels span the two pages of a spread.

Reviewer: Antonio Trujillo

(3) 4-6 Illustrated by Pavel Tatarnikov. This volume is a collection of stories about King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table. Readers are introduced to the people, places, and events of Arthurian legend. Each themed chapter begins with a synopsis of several Arthurian tales and is followed by one full tale. Numerous soft-toned watercolor illustrations provide a scenic accompaniment to the text. Reading list.

Reviewer: Antonio Trujillo

(3) 4-6 Illustrated by Tomislav Tomić. These twenty stories from various cultures include a Zuni tale about Coyote, a story about Raven and Crayfish from Siberia, and an Irish legend of Wren, who flies highest to become king of birds. Each story is skillfully told and illustrated with captivatingly intricate black-ink drawings on creamy paper with subtle watercolor borders on title pictures. There are no source notes.

Reviewer: Melinda Greenblatt

(4) 4-6 In a series of illustrated biographical sketches, Matthews highlights the careers of notoriously violent pirates, some who are well known (Blackbeard), others less so (Charlotte de Berry). The author's enthusiastic emphasis is on battles and bloodshed, incorporating bits and pieces of general history. The pages are busy, including many photos and illustrations; a center-spread foldout displays details of a captain's cabin.

Reviewer: Becky Levine

(4) YA Matthews identifies different types of wizards and cites examples from history and folklore, including Nostradamus, Rasputin, and--startlingly--Moses. The book also contains exercises in visualization, divination, and talisman making. Although well illustrated with color photos and reproductions, this engaging book's tiny typeface will be a stumbling block for many readers. Reading list. Ind.

Reviewer: Peter D. Sieruta

(4) 4-6 Illustrated by Giovanni Manna. Nervous about becoming a page in a castle, Tom is cheered by stories about the deeds of famous knights from around the world. Tom's story merely frames the seven legends, which introduce mostly unfamiliar knights, including Gushtasp of Persia, Yogodayu of Japan, and Perronik of Brittany. The retellings are a little flat, but the puffy shapes and light colors used in the watercolors give the volume a spirited look.

Reviewer: Anne St. John

(4) YA World History series. Beginning with the 1905 Bloody Sunday attempt at revolution and ending with the demise of the Soviet Union, Matthews carefully takes readers through an overview of Communist history and leaders. The book is well researched, supported with sidebars of pertinent information, and accompanied by archival photos, and though unattractively designed, it will be useful to students. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Barbara Barstow