Germany Then and Now

School Library Journal

Gr 7 Up-Spencer develops the nation's history using the events of the past 2,000 years to explain actions and characteristics of the German people and state today. The connections between the unity of the Germanic tribes, the establishing of the three Reichs, to the continuing problems with hate crimes are explored. The author's style of writing, logical progression, and use of causal relationships result in a book that is easy to read and understand. While the simplicity of the explanations is a strength of the book, it is also a weakness. Complex questions about historic actions, such as the Holocaust, are too neatly and superficially answered. The book would, however, be a good first step in gaining an understanding of the events and personalities that shaped Germany's past. The black-and-white photos are informative and interesting. The book includes a brief index, source notes, and an up-to-date list for further reading. This title is similar in content, but simpler to read than Mary Fulbrook's Concise History of Germany (Cambridge, 1991); however, Spencer does not develop the differing interpretations of other historians.-Carrol McCarthy, Tower Hill School, Wilmington, DE