Synopsis
Discusses the history of the different kinds of clothing worn in various parts of Spain and Portugal.
School Library Journal
Gr 6-9-These poorly written books will be of little help, or interest, to students as the titles rely far too heavily on the written word to describe costumes and clothing. The mostly color illustrations are inadequate in number as well as in quality, and in some cases actually contradict the text. In France, the description of a "wimple" bears no resemblance to the picture on the same spread. In Spain, a caption states that "Galician women.- wear-. [a] black or colored apron decorated with lace-" but no lace is evident in the art. The first volume covers ceremonial, military, and court fashions from medieval times through the French Revolution. The topical approach leads to considerable repetition, and the superficial coverage raises more questions than it provides answers. Spain begins with a condensed history (ending in 1788) and then discusses clothing by region and occupation. The text is both tedious and confusing, due to endless descriptions with few accompanying pictures. Neither title mentions children's outfits.-Ann W. Moore, Schenectady County Public Library, NY Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information.