(3) 4-6 The Civil War paralleled the early Industrial Revolution and the development of mass-produced armaments. Lincoln encouraged the development and use of the telegraph, aerial observation balloons, ironclad war ships, and the railroad. The authors seamlessly blend these technological advances into the larger historical record of the Civil War. Detailed illustrations and descriptions of ships, guns, and other devices are inset. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Ernie J. Cox

(3) 4-6 Allen chronicles pertinent events related to George Washington and his colonial army at Valley Forge during the winter of 1777. Accounts of Washington's conflict with politicians in the Continental Congress, some of whom were beginning to doubt his leadership, are recorded, as well as the severe hardships faced by his men. The well-documented text is accompanied by period illustrations. Timeline. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Luther B. Clegg

(3) 4-6 Illustrated by Carla Bauer. In this twist on a popular subject, Tubman's life story (interwoven with the events of the Civil War) reads like an adventure novel. Nevertheless, the well-documented book, cleverly designed and illustrated to look like a vintage volume, separates fact from myth. Extensive appendices include source notes, a map, and a spy code (several codes are hidden throughout for readers to solve). Reading list, timeline, websites. Ind.

Reviewer: Christina Dorr

(3) 4-6 Illustrated by Cheryl Harness. Designed to resemble a vintage volume, this succinct account of intercepted letters, invisible inks, and poisoning attempts explores a less well known side of Washington's life and presents an informative look at historical espionage. Several codes are hidden throughout for readers to solve. Reading list. Ind.

Reviewer: Peter D. Sieruta

(3) YA Supplemented with color maps, a two-page time line, and black-and-white photos depicting the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941, this is a vivid and often riveting account. Partly based on interviews with both Japanese and American survivors and witnesses, the book traces the preparation, military tactics, and impact of the deadly assault as well as efforts to memorialize the attack. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Jack Forman