Daily life in ancient and modern Athens

Gr 5-8-Most of this book is devoted to ancient times with sections focusing on various aspects of life, social structure, government, education, the arts, and religion, but the influence of Alexander, Roman rule, Christianity, and Athens under the Ottoman Empire brings readers into the modern period. A useful overview, with colorful illustrations depicting scenes from daily life, and a well-written, lucid text make this a readable and useful source. Unfortunately, some text overlays illustrations, making the print difficult to read. Overall, though, this will be a useful source for reports. R. Conrad Stein's Athens (Children's, 1997) doesn't have as much information or the emphasis on history, but it makes a good complement because of its many photographs and descriptions of landmarks, street scenes, and contemporary Athenians at work and play.-Cynthia M. Sturgis, Ledding Library, Milwaukie, OR (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

These serviceable, though superficial, introductions trace historical events and cultural practices of these cities up to the present. The texts are supported by historical reproductions, effective primary-source quotations, and a few contemporary photos. All the topics (e.g., the Reformation, food) get the same two-page treatment, so the books' focus sometimes lurches. At times, the undistinguished illustrations almost obscure the text. Bib., ind. (c) Copyright 2010. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.