(4) K-3 History Opens Windows series. Focusing on the details of everyday life (food, family, buildings, children), this updated series serves as an adequate introduction to past cultures for younger readers. The bright design and engaging illustrations, which include artifacts, period artwork, and photographs, may be enough to hold readers' attention despite the rather sterile texts. Reading list. Glos., ind. Review covers these History Opens Windows titles: Ancient West African Kingdoms, The Aztecs, The Incas, The Indus Valley, The Maya, The Sumerians, and The Vikings.

Reviewer: Norah Piehl

(4) 4-6 First Book: African Civilizations series. Six early African empires are chronicled in these well-written volumes. Starting with a map of the region, the books explore ancient politics, arts, and religion on a continent usually neglected in Western history books. Although some of the color photos are appropriate and informative, too many are poorly reproduced or taken from unrelated countries. Time lines are included. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Anita L. Burkam