Inside the Olympics

Gr 6–8—This overview contains standard information that can be found in the publisher's "The Olympics" series, which is geared toward younger readers and in which the same map of Olympic host cities is used. After covering the history of the Games, Hunter emphasizes the upcoming summer events in London as well as the Paralympics. Chapters discuss controversies (such as terrorism and drugs) as well the Olympic symbols and athletic milestones. The color photographs are undistinguished and sometimes too tiny to be helpful. "Biography," "Great Moments," "Olympic Greats," "Behind the Scenes," and "Technology" sidebars are scattered throughout. While these colorful boxes break up the dense text, they also interrupt the flow of the narrative. A section about discontinued sports is interesting. This book could supplement or update collections.—Blair Christolon, Prince William Public Library System, Manassas, VA