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Library Journal
Reviewed on October 15, 2012 | General Reference
Arranged topically, this updated edition presents a quick introduction to and perspective on a broad range of knowledge, from philosophy and language to physical sciences and engineering. Its preface states that while the book “can be used to look up all sorts of interesting facts, it was not designed for that purpose....Instead, this book is designed to provide the reader with a quick introduction to important fields of study.” Each section has its own table of contents. Some subsections contain subject-specific glossaries and chronologies. Sidebars and illustrations present related information and make the dense content easier on the eye. Entries are signed and list resources for further study. Coverage is worldwide, with an American emphasis. The content is as ...Log In or Sign Up to Read More
School Library Journal
Reviewed on January 1, 2012
Gr 9 Up–This 2,000-plus page whopping revision of the 1985 edition claims to be a “broad overview of essential bodies of knowledge; a source that [does] not provide every detail, but only the most essential information,” and it does that, strictly speaking. However, the organization is confusing. Content is arranged thematically as opposed to alphabetically, which would be more convenient. Themes include “Education, Language and Logic,” “Government,” and “Biological Sciences,” with each of these subdivided and each subdivision made more granular still. Many headings are vaguel...Log In or Sign Up to Read More