School Library Journal Review
Gr 7 Up-These well-written titles look at interesting aspects of World War II. Kallen presents a readable account of how the fighting overseas affected daily life in America. He does a good job of looking at families, women's changing roles, air-raid drills and bomb shelters, the draft and conscientious objectors, the importance of propaganda and the influence of Hollywood, war bonds, and the inconvenience of rationing. A mother's first-person description of learning of her son's death is especially poignant, and the affect of the war on race relations is handled well, as is a discussion of life after peace. Rice notes that although almost 3000 airmen gave up their lives in honor of the Emperor, their efforts were not enough to defeat the Americans in the latter days of the war. The ancient philosophies, training, and strategies behind the Kamikazes are explained here in great detail using direct quotes, descriptions of planes and individual missions, and dramatic and helpful illustrations. The vast amount of information packed into this title may bog down less mature users, but the glossary is especially helpful. Both books are thoroughly researched, and have relevant sidebars, numerous archival photographs, and well-annotated bibliographies.-Andrew Medlar, Chicago Public Library, IL (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Horn Book Review
Each of nine volumes focuses on a different aspect of World War II. The articulate texts provide detailed accounts of specific battles and participants, as well as anecdotes, both grim and moving, that personalize the lives of those who served in the military and those who remained on the homefront. Illustrated with black-and-white photos, six of the books contain time lines and three include glossaries. Bib., ind. (c) Copyright 2010. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Booklist Review
Gr. 6^-12. Focusing on often neglected subjects such as the Japanese kamikaze pilots of World War II and a soldier's daily life during the Civil War, these volumes in the American War Library series present readers with a historical and cultural perspective as well as a concise introduction to the key aspects of the topics. Life among the Soldiers looks at Civil War enlistment, clothing, weapons, and training, as well as postwar experiences. The War at Home describes the impact of World War II on daily life in the U.S., particularly civil defense, changes in the workplace and family life, and racial discrimination. Kamikazes deals with the development and eventual adoption of the suicide mission as a Japanese military strategy. Each comprehensive volume is fully documented, providing researchers with notes, a bibliography, a chronology, a glossary, and maps. Many archival photographs, sidebars, and primary source materials enrich the reading experience. Highly recommended for military history collections. See the Series Roundup in this issue for other titles.--Mary Romano Marks