EYEGLASSES

Attached to a common pair of eyeglasses is a fascinating history of the evolution of lenses to improve human vision. In this entry in the Household History series, Goldstein puts the goal of 20/20 vision in context: In the Middle Ages, few people could read or write, and no one drove, so good eyesight was less important; most people died before they were 45, so problems caused by ``old'' age were much less frequent. The development of glasses runs parallel to the rise of education and the increase of life spans. Diagrams demonstrate how glasses correct vision problems, and a wealth of full-color photographs cover eyewear from monocles to pince-nez to Ray-Bans. This quick little survey includes a make-a-lorgnette project, but the essence of the book is in how Goldstein uncovers history in a household item and enthralls readers in the process. (glossary, index) (Nonfiction. 8-11)