Reviews

Gr 4-8-Due to the multitude of events and long history of the Olympics, there is a lot left out of this book. Yet, there are plenty of fascinating details and copious color and black-and-white photos and reproductions that make it fun for browsing. In the familiar double-page spreads, the author covers the ancient games, the rebirth of the Olympics at the end of the 19th century, and a very brief history of the winter and summer games. Also included are the Paralympics, featuring disabled athletes in a variety of sports; past Olympic stars; and equipment such as bicycles, timing devices, track suits, skates, and shoes. A cross section shows the stadium under construction for the summer games in Sydney in 2000. Some of the turbulent history and controversies associated with the Olympics are introduced, but no mention is made of the recent bribery scandals. An adequate index and time line featuring one or two highlights of each of the games are also included. Don't look for this book to answer many questions, but it should prove popular.-Todd Morning, Schaumburg Township Public Library, IL Copyright 1999 Cahners Business Information.