(4) 4-6 First Battles series. Though at times bogged down with tedious details, this is a thorough look at two incidents (one substantiated, the other often considered to be fabricated) that resulted in U.S. escalation in Vietnam. Black-and-white photos do little to break up the text, which quotes participants extensively. The Gulf of Tonkin Resolution granting unprecedented war-making powers to the president is appended. Timeline, websites. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Jeannine M. Chapman

(3) 4-6 First Battles series. This book chronicles the events--from the earliest stirrings of revolution in Cuba to the 1976 investigation to determine fault--that led to the destruction of the Maine and the aftermath. McNeese's fluid writing and thorough research is especially noticeable in his description of the actual explosion. Archival black-and-white photographs, illustrations, a list of websites, and a time line help to break up the text. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Jeannine M. Chapman

(3) 4-6 First Battles series. This well-organized, concisely written history describes what forces in Japan--from the military's control of the government to the need to move away from an agrarian society--led to Japan's decision to attack Pearl Harbor. McNeese also discusses how the attack was planned and gives a blow-by-blow account of the attack and its aftermath. Black-and-white archival photos, maps, a list of websites, and a time line are included. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Jeannine M. Chapman

(3) 4-6 First Battles series. This concise yet thorough overview starts with the Boston Massacre and includes an account of the Tea Party. In addition to describing famous individuals associated with the two battles, a final chapter recounts the experiences of an "ordinary" man connected with the historic events. Black-and-white archival illustrations accompany the text. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Jim St. Claire