The Navy in Action

Children's Literature

Gaines presents an admirable overview of the United States Navy in this addition to the "U.S. Military Branches and Careers" series. She traces the history of the Navy from its humble two-ship beginning during the American Revolutionary War to its current state as the largest navy in the world. In an interesting twist from other military nonfiction books, the author has a specific section describing how people can join the Navy, outlining how people joined in the past and what today's recruits can expect. The detail provided also includes diagrams illustrating the organization of the military and specifically the Navy. Gaines provides in-depth coverage regarding women and minorities in the Navy, including Eleanor Roosevelt's fight to include African-American women in the Navy Nurse Corps. Last, the author focuses on the future of the American naval forces. Full of information, the book includes small sections focusing on people or events within the history of the United States Navy as well as a glossary and Internet information. This book provides a starting point for anyone trying to learn about the United States Navy. 2001, Enslow, $20.95. Ages 8 to 14. Reviewer: John D. Orsborn