Gr 7 Up-These books take readers from the earliest form of the featured medium through centuries of stylistic movements and the present state of the art. Because they cover so many artists and styles, no period is treated in depth. Each title is thoroughly researched and fully referenced, and contains quotations from artists and art historians. The writing is generally clear and fluid, although some terms, like "leitmotif," "flamboyant," and "striations," might challenge readers. The authors also assume that students have a general knowledge of world history and major historical movements, such as the Baroque era and the Enlightenment. Many of the pages have good-quality photos of artwork and artists, but there are frustrating places in which a piece of art is described in detail, with no accompanying illustration. Photography tends to emphasize the edgier side of the medium and includes discussions and/or pictures of riots, war, Robert Mapplethorpe, etc. All of the books conclude with standard study aids and extensive indexes and are good resources for art students.-Donna Cardon, Provo City Library, UT Copyright 2007 Reed Business Information.