Prohibition: America Makes Alcohol Illegal

School Library Journal

Gr 5-8-Cohen clearly dicusses the Eighteenth Amendment and its impact on the community, the economy, and the government. The roots of the temperance movement are described, and biographical sketches of key individuals, including Al Capone and Carry Nation, are provided. The text is lively and will interest readers. Black-and-white and full-color photographs and reproductions appear throughout. A useful addition for school assignments or for informational reading.-Ann M. Burlingame, North Regional Library, Raleigh, NC

Carolyn Phelan

From the Spotlight on American History series, this book surveys the historical context of American attitudes toward alcohol, the rise of the temperance movement, the passage of the Eighteenth Amendment, the social consequences of Prohibition, and the amendment's repeal. Illustrations, some in color, include reproductions of many period photographs as well as paintings and prints. Although the book centers on the Prohibition era, it offers a lively, readable discussion of how the temperance issue intertwined with forces and changes in American politics, business, attitudes, behaviors, and ethics from 1785 to 1933. An intriguing summary of an era and an idea too often given cursory treatment in history books for children.