Capitalism vs. Socialism: Economic Policies of the U.S. and the USSR (Impact Books)

Grade 9 Up A brief but accurate overview of modern capitalism and socialism, strongly emphasizing actual practice over theory. Like most recent authors for adults on this subject, Kronenwetter takes a historical approach rather than the more traditional current-events style of economics textbooks. This will give students a good picture of why socialism developed along with industrial capitalism. But in a little over 100 pages, he cannot make this subject really interesting to teenagers because there aren't enough illustrations, case studies or in-depth explanations. Excessive polysyllabication impedes understanding, although motivated readers may plow on through. Kronenwetter does try to remain objective, although a few pejorative comments on socialism creep in. The book is well-organized, the ideas follow logically, and the facts are accurate, although sometimes too vague. The illustrations add little to the text, and the bibliography is very brief. Jonathan R. Betz-Zall, Sno-Isle Regional Library, Lynnwood, Wash.
Copyright 1986 Reed Business Information, Inc.