War of the Currents; Thomas Edison vs. Nikola Tesla by Stephanie Sammartino McPherson-ADVISABLE

McPherson, Stephanie Sammartino, War of the Currents; Thomas Edison vs. Nikola Tesla,  Twenty-First Century Books, 2013. Pgs. 64. INFORMATION.

In the early 1880s, only a few wealthy people had electricity in their homes. Everyone else had to use gas lamps and other dangerous lighting. Inventor, Thomas Edison already had a leading role in the industry. He had invented the first reliable light bulb. By 1882, his Edison Electric Light Company was distributing electricity using a direct current. Nikola Tesla, however, believed that an alternating current system would be better. With an AC system, Tesla could deliver electricity for far more miles than the direct current. So began the War of Currents and the battle to create the electricity standard.

An interesting, unique perspective on history. The layout is good, the photos and primary sources draw the reader in as well as the bold, attention-grabbing chapter headings. Readers interested in the history of the light bulb or who are doing a history project will enjoy and appreciate the informative and easy to follow format of this book. Included are a timeline, a glossary, further information sources, and an index.  EL(4-6), MS, HS. ADVISABLE. Reviewer:Jessica Moody, Library Media Specialist, Olympus Jr. High.