Looking into the Middle Ages

School Library Journal

Gr 4-6 Here is a pop-up book that deserves a place on the history shelf. Scarry beautifully combines written and visual information. Each double-page spread comes to life with intricate, well-documented three-dimensional art. Basic information on such topics as the castle, fortified villages, cathedrals, battles and festivals are included. Brief captions for the figures provide additional information. The pop-up illustrations can be viewed from all angles. Moving parts, such as a drawbridge, a catapult and a waterwheel, further enhance the text. The high quality, heavy gauge paper on which these colorful drawings are done are well crafted and should assure a decent life span for this title. Although it is not as detailed as Gwyneth Morgan's Life in a Medieval Village (Lerner, 1982) or Trevor Cairns' The Middle Ages (Lerner, 1974), Looking into the Middle Ages will spark interest in the topic. Elisabeth LeBris, Kenilworth Public School System, Ill.