The United Nations

School Library Journal

Gr 7-12-A well-organized, cogent overview of the birth, evolution, and historical successes and failures of the United Nations. Coverage includes early attempts at forming international peace organizations, starting with the Congress of Vienna in 1815. Black-and-white photos and charts are of adequate quality and are appropriately placed, while wide margins add to the book's appeal. The writing is straightforward but textbookish; the volume will likely attract only report writers. While not as attractive as Stewart Ross's The United Nations (Watts, 1990), this book is more thorough, up-to-date, and a bit more sophisticated. A welcome addition for those libraries lacking recent material on the UN.-Rosie Peasley, Empire Union School District, Modesto, CA