《图书馆杂志》(Library Journal )书评

European sophisticates and Americans who wish they were consider Texas a reproach, the epicenter of American conservatism and the home of George W. Bush, while many Americans cherish their Texas connections for those same reasons. This collection of four A&E documentaries could not have come at a better time. Remember the Alamo is a 90-minute look at that legendary battle, the political history that led up to it, and how it has been perceived by subsequent generations. The roles of such legendary figures as William Barret Travis, Jim Bowie, and Davy Crockett are discussed. The program points out that while the massacre was terrible, it was a case of Mexican citizens rebelling against their government, and civil wars are seldom pleasant. The Battle of the Alamo covers much the same ground but focuses more on the battle itself. Part of A&E's "Real West" series, it has an informality that makes it very enjoyable to watch. The third documentary is from A&E's "Biography" series and concerns this reviewer's familial connection to Texas (through his paternal grandmother), the legendary Davy Crockett. Crockett, says the documentary, was a wildly popular figure well before he got to Texas (he was perhaps the first American media celebrity). This documentary follows his legend in America through to the 1950s and the Crockett craze of that time. Rounding out this look at Texas history is another "Real West" documentary on the colorful Texas Rangers, which is informative as well as highly entertaining. This set is highly recommended for all libraries and all audiences and is mandatory for Texas libraries.-Christopher Johnson, Webster Groves P.L., MO (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.