Gr 1-2-Straightforward but lifeless presentations for beginning readers. These small-format overviews of different aspects of Colonial life present full-page, average-quality photographs opposite large-print, simple texts. One to three sentences offer a statement and/or explanation, such as "Some people were cobblers. Cobblers made shoes from leather." Finally, each book summarizes the preceding pages with a one-line statement opposite a photo collage of some of the previous pictures of modern-day enactment scenes. Each title concludes with a glossary listing no more than nine words, a guide to books and Web sites, and a short index. While children may learn some facts about the period, there are many better titles that will inspire and encourage reading.-Tina Hudak, St. Bernard's School, Riverdale, MD Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information.