

Series: Smithsonian Institution
Hardcover: 304 pages
Publisher: DK Children; First American Edition, 2003 edition (April 2003)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0789483300
ISBN-13: 978-0789483300
Product Dimensions: 8.8 x 1 x 11.2 inches
Shipping Weight: 4.4 pounds
Average Customer Review: 4.4 out of 5 stars See all reviews (36 customer reviews)
Best Sellers Rank: #206,849 in Books (See Top 100 in Books) #45 in Books > Children's Books > Education & Reference > Reference > Encyclopedias #71 in Books > Reference > Encyclopedias & Subject Guides > Children's #669 in Books > Children's Books > Education & Reference > History > United States
Age Range: 10 - 17 years
Grade Level: 5 - 12

I am a conservative Christian looking for the right history book to homeschool my kids. I read this DK Children's Encyclopedia from beginning to end, and I find it acceptable over all in content presentation. Another reviewer here says the book is too liberal, but I disagree; I think Mr. King clearly strives to present an unbiased view of American History. Now everybody has his own view of history, and a history book is bound to reveal somewhat of the author's bias. However, it is obvious that Mr. King kept his own opinions well under control, making this book excellent read for people of every view point.For example, in presenting the Reagan administration, Mr. King mentioned the tax cuts, shrinking government, and the prosperity ensued. He mentioned that "The number of homeless people grew at an alarming rate" (p.239) without saying what that rate is, but over all, he did say that Reagan was so popular that even some Democrats voted for him (Reagan Democrats), and many middle class Americans consider the Reagan era the best of times.In contrast, in describing President Clinton, Mr. King said most of his proposals didn't make it through the legislature, but Clinton remained popular because of the economic boom. Then he described Clinton's scandals in detail, leaving me the impression Clinton didn't do much else. A liberal might consider this presentation not giving Clinton enough credit.In selecting a children's history book, one must consider what is available out there, and this one is the most balanced I find so far. If you want to see something really liberal, check out The Making Of America by Robert D Johnston. It is published by the National Geographic Society, with a forward by first lady Laura Bush; sounds good, doesn't it?
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