With clear, accessible prose and abundant, well-selected illustrations, including primary-source document reproductions, this Documenting the War of 1812 series title offers an informative, engaging account of events and issues leading up to and during the war. Following a general introduction, chapters discuss the background and catalysts for actions, the increasing conflict between the U.S. and Great Britain, and countries and populations affected and involved. Historical context is well incorporated throughout, and Isaacs effectively conveys the war's complex hows and whys, the arguments for and against the war, and influencing factors. Attractive, color-filled layouts mix sidebars, visuals, and text against a parchmentlike background. Visuals range from maps, period drawings, and political cartoons to portraits, articles, and proclamations. Though some of the reproduced visuals' small font size can occasionally be difficult to read, this is overall a worthy addition to collections and will appeal to middle-grade American history buffs.

FLATT, Lizann . The Legacy of the War of 1812 . ISBN 978-0-7787-7961-2 ; ISBN 978-0-7787-7966-7 . LC 2011029841. ISAACS, Sally Senzell . What Caused the War of 1812? ISBN 978-0-7787-7962-9 ; ISBN 978-0-7787-7967-4 . LC 2011029838. JOHNSON, Robin . Famous People of the War of 1812 . ISBN 978-0-7787-7959-9 ; ISBN 978-0-7787-7964-3 . LC 2011029839. ea vol: 48p. (Documenting the War of 1812 Series). illus. maps. photos. reprods. bibliog. chron. further reading. glossary. index. Web sites. CIP. Crabtree . 2011. PLB $30.60; pap. $9.95. Gr 6-9 Taken collectively, these volumes present an effective, engaging account of the causes, personages, and battles of an all-too-often-forgotten American conflict. Occurring in the early years of the young nation, it tested the Republic's mettle, fanned the flames of nationalism, and provided a proving ground for future leaders, such as Andrew Jackson. Each volume, covering a particular aspect of the war, presents readers with germane terminology and concepts critical to understanding the conflict and its role in American history. Brief sidebars, numerous photos and illustrations, and concise chapters all work to keep readers engaged with the diversity of information. While the writing leaves much to be desired and the addition of a few primary sources would have been helpful, these titles do provide eye-catching, well-captioned images and straightforward arrangements of facts to create serviceable additions for reports. Brian Odom, Pelham Public Library, AL