These unusually handsome and informative volumes for older children cover major episodes in music history. They tell the stories of important composers and performers, while also explaining details of instrument construction, fundamentals of music theory, and related historical information. Accompanying full-color illustrations have detailed captions and labels. These volumes make fine introductions to elementary music appreciation classes, but they also provide pleasant casual reading to young music lovers.This book of 47 matchstick brain teasers includes one puzzle dating from ancient Rome -- probably originally performed with twigs. Other puzzles come from from different times and places. A different puzzle is diagrammed on each color-illustrated page, and comes with rules. A fan-fold section pulls out and gives answers to all puzzles. Packaged with the book is a multicolored set of large imitation "matchsticks", with a plastic pouch.