1000 Years of Famous People
Grade 4 Up-A thousand years and well over a thousand people are included in this volume. It is organized into 10 thematic chapters, such as world leaders, explorers, scientists, writers and reformers, musicians and dancers, movers and shakers, and sports stars. Within each section, the biographical sketches are organized chronologically by date of birth, which makes the progression quite logical. The emphasis is overwhelmingly Western, focusing almost exclusively on European and American individuals; however, the book does include many lesser-known figures of historical note, especially in the areas of science, invention, and exploration. The majority of the profiles are under 100 words in length, highlighting the person's contribution to world history. The design is excellent, with lots of useful full-color illustrations and archival photos; the volume is strengthened by a simple and comprehensive index. Overall, this is a good, solid addition that would make a handy ready-reference source. The range in coverage is interesting-from Mahatma Gandhi to Timothy McVeigh-and the presentation and writing are well done.Laura Reed, Pickering Public Library, Ontario, CanadaCopyright 2003 Reed Business Information, Inc.