* AMSCO's United States History: Preparing for the Advanced Placement Examination: This is a popular choice because it's comprehensive, closely aligns with the APUSH curriculum, and includes practice questions. It's often considered the most thorough, but can be quite dense. Good for those who prefer a detailed, textbook-like approach.
* Barron's AP US History: This book is known for its extensive practice tests and detailed explanations. It's a strong choice for students who want lots of practice questions to gauge their understanding. It might be less comprehensive in its content coverage than AMSCO.
* Princeton Review AP US History Premium Prep: This option combines content review with practice tests and strategies for tackling the exam. It's often praised for its clear explanations and helpful test-taking advice. It tends to be more concise than AMSCO.
* Kaplan AP US History: Similar to Princeton Review, Kaplan offers a balanced approach with content review and practice tests. Their strength lies in their diagnostic tools and targeted practice exercises.
To choose the best book for *you*, consider:
* Your current knowledge: If you're already quite strong in the subject, a book with a strong emphasis on practice tests (like Barron's or Princeton Review) might suffice. If you need more foundational knowledge, AMSCO might be a better fit.
* Your learning style: Do you prefer detailed explanations or concise summaries? Do you learn best through practice or by reading? Choose a book that matches your learning preferences.
* Your time constraints: Some books are more comprehensive and require more time to work through than others. Consider how much time you have available for review.
Ultimately, browsing reviews on sites like Amazon and checking out sample pages from each book will help you determine which one best suits your needs. You could even consider looking at multiple books to supplement your studies and address any gaps in your understanding.