Trial of John T. Scopes: A Primary Source Account

School Library Journal

Gr 5-8-These titles examine the details of both trials utilizing photographs, copies of original transcripts, political cartoons, and quotations from those involved. Scopes, although complicated, is written with respectful attention to the issues of evolution and creationism, the separation of church and state, and the power of the government. Readers interested in the law will be captivated by the complexities of the arguments, presented by Clarence Darrow and William Jennings Bryan. Olson's writing style evokes the "broiling courtroom" of July 1925 in Tennessee and readers can almost hear the reporters recounting events of the trial on the newly invented radio. The events of the Lindbergh case are portrayed with sensitivity to the pain of the family as well as that of Bruno Hauptmann, who maintained his innocence until he was executed. Evidence used in the trial is portrayed using primary-source images of the kidnapper's ransom notes, the sleeping suit worn by the baby when kidnapped, and Bruno Hauptmann's handwriting samples. Both texts are excellent purchases for research of these important events in 20th-century American history.-Rebecca Sheridan, Easttown Library & Information Center, Berwyn, PA Copyright 2004 Reed Business Information.