http://www.historyinanhour.com/

This site offers e-books on topics like 'The Cold War in an Hour' and 'WW2 in an Hour'.  I'm wondering what my thoughts are about this offer... On the one hand, I can see that seeking to engage people with quick guides to important historical events / epochs is really valid and important (I guess it's what many TV documentaries do, right?).  And I like the fact that they're taking a no nonsense approach to writing about the past (as they say "straight, narrative, chronological order"): I imagine this might offer the potential / first step in the journey towards some deeper thinking... 

On the other hand, if this was the only place someone went for their knowledge and understanding, would it be ok?  I think that - as a history teacher - I'd love for my students to search widely, exploring many sources of information; where possible using a good mix of contemporary sources and interpretation.  So, perhaps my pondering about these e-books is where they potentially offer a really good opportunity: they're a great assessment waiting to happen.  E.g. "Can you improve this e-book?" or "What's missing from History in an Hour?" What does anyone else think?  How would you use them in your classroom?