Delving into historical periods marked by turmoil and violence, these books from the Inquire & Investigate series (2 new titles) present well-organized accounts of what happened, while evaluating these contentious eras and their consequences. A straightforward text tells the main story, while the sidebars appearing on most pages offer short biographies, fill in pertinent details, and introduce related topics. The illustrations include photos, paintings, prints and political cartoons from the period, as well as a few modern-day photos. Each chapter leads off with an engaging, graphic-novel-style panel featuring one or more older-teen characters learning about the past through a personal connection. In Reconstruction, Sharon, who is Black, reflects on a protest march that became contentious, while her grandmother offers perspective and encouragement based on her experiences during the civil rights era. Though these sections add a textbook-like look, many of the activities are worthwhile. Thoughtful presentations of history and, particularly in Reconstruction, its relevance today.

Gr 7--10--This history resource chronicles the period following the Civil War. The text tries to analyze the time period within the context of current events and show how the missteps of the past have impacted the present. Each chapter begins with a comic strip of a young Black woman and her grandmother, who discuss racism and America's legacy of white supremacy. The "Inquire & Investigate" series urges students to delve deeper into topics and provides sample assignments. The book feels like a school assignment rather than an informational read, but the text covers the era thoroughly, providing QR codes and numerous historical illustrations. Time lines, sidebars, investigative opportunities, additional resources, and an index are included. The text is readable but obviously geared for classroom use as opposed to pleasure reading. VERDICT An excellent update to titles that detail this time period; students will be able to put history into perspective.--Esther Keller, I.S. 278, Brooklyn