*“From the well-chosen cover art, to the clear and uncluttered typeface, to the good layout with plenty of white space, it is obvious that a great deal of thought about the user has gone into the creation and design of this set. Each volume contains about 100 pages with 18 to 21 signed articles that vary in length from 3 to 6 pages and are arranged in an easy-to-use alphabetical sequence. The overall style is lively and enticing. The scope of the 193 articles includes the Canadian West and the Mexican territory and deals with the time period from 1787 to 1912. There are articles on individual people and states; particular subjects, like Alamo, Battle of the; and broad topics, like Education and Homesteaders and homesteading. The text is good, but it is the blending of period photographs and documentary sources with ties to pertinent movies, art, and literature that raises this above other works on the topic. Informational sidebars and primary-source-material panels enhance the text. Each entry has see also references, and each volume has a short list of print and electronic resources as well as a short glossary and index. Volume 11 contains a time line, glossary, directory of articles and contributors, resources for further study, an index of maps, six thematic indexes, and a comprehensive index to the set.

For the first time, the publisher has a simultaneous release of an electronic version. This version has many fine features. It is easy to log on and navigate, and students will like the fact that they have the ability to take and save notes in their own file; access the pictures in a larger format than in the print version; and see how to cite an article in various formats. They can also access a dictionary or thesaurus, enlarge the typeface, and print an article with or without the pictures.

The set is thoughtfully arranged and can be used by a wide range of students. The articles are interesting and enlightening. The index volume is helpful and contains usable information, not just the usual index and glossary. Recommended for school and public libraries that serve a student population in grades 5 and up. The print version is a good value, but libraries that have the money should also purchase the online version.” STARRED REVIEW