Thanks, one thing I like about Notgrass is that in general he is pretty fair in his coverage of events. As a history major I am only too well aware of all the bias that comes with history books, and history is fraught with differing opinions, which can make it difficult for kids to discern things. In our lessons we always had an emphasis on original source material as much as possible and on looking at various sources for information. I need the girls to understand the bias that is out there, I needed them to not take everything at face value – that they should check for themselves and veryify from various sources. It is hard to get complete accurate history in books – all we can do is try. At university, all of my professors were liberal loons, and they taught with that emphasis, I learned what they said, but then I found history experts from conservative backgrounds and between that and original sources, I came out with a pretty good education – not perfect but better than just a one sided view. Notgrass, obviously will also have his leanings, but so far I have found the coverage fair and his original source books are excellent. I think you will be pleased with it – in areas where my daughters had special interest they are reading complimentary books, like the Churchill ones I mentioned and some others. They also read biographies as well, and when possible autobiographies – to find things out. I love history, but I know many find it dull and boring, Notgrass makes it interesting, especially if you round it out with the source materials and other readings. Good luck. Linda
