The What Would You Do? series gives readers an opportunity to learn about some notable events in American history and then figure out what actions they might have taken had they been around. Every few pages, readers are asked to assume a persona ("What would you do if you were a tea-loving colonist?") and then make a choice (force yourself to drink herbal tea or pay the tax?). In the hands of veteran series specialist Landau, the questions really force readers to think. The Salem Witchcraft Trials offers kids the opportunity to think about moral issues, especially in the cases of Tituba and those who made accusations. What actually occurred in each case is contained in the narrative on the following page. The clean, open design with room for a good-size typeface and plentiful historical pictures invites readers in, and the boxed questions will provide teachers the opportunity to start conversations. Lots of pluses here.

These volumes place young readers at the heart of some dilemmas of frequently studied pivotal events in American history. Sections in simple, conversational language promote discussion by alternating "What Would You Do?" questions (which are more sophisticated than the main text) with "What Really Happened." Maps and archival images add to the presentation. Reading list, timeline, websites. Glos., ind.