Brandon Marie Miller

Brandon Marie Miller gives an informative view on "What Americans Wore 1620-1970." Rather than merely presenting the dry, historical facts, Miller discusses fashion as social construct, delving into the political and social reasoning and connections behind many fashion trends. Miller expertly teaches a history of American fashion and America itself while maintaining a very human perspective on the subject without becoming frivolous. The book is a bit more wordy than expected, but still show more digestible, and the pictures are great. Overall, it gave me a feeling of accuracy, believability, and accessibility. show less

As Brandon writes 'most of these women weren't famous' but they left journals. I'd heard of Carrie Nation, but my opinion of her changed from prudish, overly zealous, to a much more compassionate woman. But I'd never heard of Rachel Plummer or Mary Elizabeth Lease or Bethinia Owens-Adair, and I'm so impressed by their courage, and strength.

Unlike many biographies designed for children that seem to focus on just one part of someone's life, George Washington for Kids presents a thorough account of the first president's entire life. The book mixes information about Washington's many accomplishments in life, mixed with interesting facts about his life (who knew that Washington returned a British general's dog after a battle?). What truly makes the book enjoyable are the different activities interspersed throughout the pages, like show more designing a recruitment post, rolling beeswax candles, or how to play a game of whist. The book would be a great addition to the library of any history lover. show less

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