UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL: Portraits from Socrates to Hitler is a light and lively History of Europe written by historian Dr. Rita S. Botwinick. Dr. Botwinick uses a first person approach to enliven the pages of history and bring forth the personalities and moments that created western civilization. This book marks Professor Botwinick as a rising star in the creative nonfiction style called 'History as Storytelling'. Twelve chapters span ancient history, the middle ages, the renaissance, and modern history. UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL: Portraits from Socrates to Hitler will be enjoyed by anyone interested in history. In addition, high school teachers and college professors will adopt the book as a supplemental text in European History courses.