Goddesses
Grade 4-6–Little more than an expanded dictionary, this book is more suitable for browsing than research. More than 100 goddesses are featured in the alphabetically arranged entries; each deity is allotted a paragraph that briefly explains her attributes or outlines a legend associated with her. The attention to goddesses from a dazzling multiplicity of cultures is laudable, but the shallowness of the material presented is regrettable. The writing is clear but lifeless. Ranging in size from small vignettes to full-page paintings, the watercolor-and-gouache illustrations are colorful and serve to break up the blocks of text. A different vertical border decorates the pages for each letter of the alphabet. Perhaps this broad introduction will whet readers' appetites and encourage them to delve further into the topic, but it's additional at best.–Miriam Lang Budin, Chappaqua Public Library, NYCopyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.