Book excerpt: With Barron’s, learning American history becomes fun. Painless American History, presents the story of the United States as an exciting drama, from the first Native Americans to the millennium. This edition has been updated to include important events of the early twenty-first century. Geared toward middle school– and high school–level learners, Painless American History takes a lighthearted, humorous approach to learning about U.S. history, and is ideal for students who find it confusing or who just need a little extra help. Short quizzes and “Brain Ticklers” are included throughout the book so students can test their learning progress. Painless American History also includes timelines to help students understand how historic events relate to one another, and ideas for interesting projects. Students will learn about Columbus’s landing, European colonization, United States independence, and the country’s modern development and growth. The authors' main goal is to clear up confusion and pique interest by emphasizing the intriguing and often exciting ways in which students can put each subject to practical use.