This was from the World Landmark books series, companion to the Landmark books, which focused on U.S. history. Both were perfect for young history nerds such as I in the late fifties. As with the Landmark books, I won't enter all that I read. This serves as an example because it was the first "real" book that I read cover to cover in one sitting -- or rather, lying. It was in our basement on a Saturday afternoon when I was in the fourth grade, my head was propped on a burlap bag filled with pecans. I was gripped by the story. Seems fitting in light of my eventual career both. ( )