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ratings: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)

ISBN: 978-0-333-46576-9

Genre: History, Textbook, Education

Book Review:
Norman Lowe's ''Mastering Modern World History'' has long been considered a classic and indispensable resource for students embarking on the study of the 20th century. This second edition, part of the Macmillan Master Series, continues that tradition, providing a clear, comprehensive, and accessible guide to a complex and pivotal period in human history.

The book is ideally suited for its target audience: GCSE and Key Stage 4 students, those taking A-Level introductions, and participants in Liberal Studies and Adult Education courses. Its greatest strength is its design as a ''complete, readable, self-contained course.'' No previous knowledge is assumed, making it an ideal starting point for anyone new to the subject.

Lowe, drawing on decades of experience teaching history in schools and colleges, structures the narrative in a logical and easy-to-follow manner. He covers the major events and themes of modern world history, from the causes and consequences of the First World War, through the rise of totalitarian regimes and the Second World War, to the Cold War, decolonization, and the shifting global landscape of the late 20th century. The book concludes with a look at the world at the dawn of the new millennium.

This revised second edition has been updated to align with the latest GCSE syllabus developments. A particularly valuable addition is the new work section at the end of each chapter, which includes documentary exercises. These exercises provide students with essential practice in interpreting historical sources, a key skill for examinations and historical study in general. The text is also enhanced with illustrations to aid understanding.

For its clarity, comprehensiveness, and affordability, ''Mastering Modern World History'' remains a top recommendation for students and teachers alike. It is a book that not only imparts essential knowledge but also fosters the critical thinking skills necessary for a deeper engagement with the past. An excellent and reliable coursebook.