November 1, 2011
Gr 5-7-Ollhoff's clearly written texts trace Hispanic history from the Paleo-Indians, conquistadors, and African forbears. These books also discuss the rise and decline of Spanish colonial North America; the effects of Mexican independence; discrimination and Hispanic civil rights; and the growing political, economic, and social influence of the Hispanic population. The layout is attractive with full-page illustrations and photos, many with text superimposed on the images. This series will help students understand the scope and significance of Hispanic history.
Copyright 2011 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.
January 1, 2012
Ollhoff provides brief and simplified histories of the title topics (e.g., the two-sentence description of Columbus's 1492 voyage in Conquistadors; miniscule synopses of the Mexican-American and Spanish-American wars in Conflicts). The texts, along with archival reproductions and artwork, could serve as very basic introductions to the subjects. Glos., ind.
(Copyright 2012 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)