(3) YA This book's premise is that long before Columbus, other seamen explored the Americas. In his introduction Wulffson cites archaeological research stating Phoenicians and Roman Christians, as well as explorers from China, Ireland, Wales, and Africa, may have visited the Americas' shores (though he stresses that the evidence is not incontrovertible). Maps, illustrations, photographs, and sidebars enhance the highly readable text. Reading list, websites. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Luther B. Clegg

(4) YA In 1199 China, Baoliu is found guilty of murdering his father's new wife. He's spared execution when his father pays to have a peasant take Baoliu's place. The plot follows Baoliu as he tries to prove his innocence. Wulffson's setting is well realized and the action is fast-paced and suspenseful, but the characters occasionally sound and act too modern.

Reviewer: Maeve Visser Knoth

(3) 4-6 Illustrated by Jared Lee & Jared Lee. Derivations of both common words and proper names are included in this alphabetically arranged volume. The pithy text reveals that the word sofa comes from a cushion used for riding on a camel's back and that yo-yo is a Tagalog phrase for come-come. Illustrated with comical black-and-white art, the book also explains the origins of state names, many car models, and several sports teams. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Peter D. Sieruta

(2) YA Erik Brandt is sixteen, uncommitted to the Nazi cause, and "sick with terror" when he is drafted into the German army and immediately sent to the Eastern Front. Wounded behind enemy lines, he assumes the identity of a Russian soldier. Erik's first-person narrative records battlefield sequences with an unflinching--and occasionally numbing--brutality, in a story notable for its unusual perspective.

Reviewer: Peter D. Sieruta | Horn Book Magazine Issue: July, 2001

(4) 4-6 In a lively, colloquial style, Wulffson presents brief accounts of the origins of several dozen varied inventions, from the animated cartoon to the Zamboni, as well as contact lenses, leotards, and toilets. Well-documented photographs and other visuals illustrate each entry, and sidebars offer further tidbits. The text is a bit simplistic and editorialized, though.

Reviewer: Frieda F. Bostian

(3) 4-6 Illustrated by Laurie Keller. Parcheesi, bicycles, and Mr. Potato Head are among the playthings highlighted in this overview. The accessible prose shows how various toys have been invented (the Slinky was developed by a military engineer), became popular (the Tonight show was responsible for the initial success of Twister), and affected popular culture (the Super Bowl's name was inspired by the Super Ball). Keller's loopy illustrations add to the fun. Bib.

Reviewer: Peter D. Sieruta