11/01/2015
Gr 7 Up—Skillfully blending narrative and well-documented primary sources, these books provide superior coverage about the Holocaust. The high level of detail goes well beyond the standard, often-sensationalized recitation of evil leaders, methods, and numbers killed, describing how Adolf Hitler and the Nazis exploited Europe's widespread anti-Semitism, creating a climate that quickly escalated from persecution to the destruction of most of Europe's Jews. Books are text-dense, and authors fully develop topics, drawing on primary sources to give voice to Holocaust victims and survivors, the Nazis who crushed those who opposed them and their ideas, and the brave souls who risked everything to save Jewish lives. Sidebars, occasional photos, and maps supplement the writing. Those looking for research sources will find plenty of material in this set and will also gain a better understanding of how easily evil can overwhelm good and result in catastrophe. VERDICT An excellent addition to collections serving upper middle and high school students.
