China

March 1, 2014

PreS-Gr 2-These releases in the series introduce very young readers to the culture and geography of a particular country. Basic facts and a few unique features of each country are provided in a clear and straightforward manner. The books cover subjects such as landforms, animals, language, food, celebrations, and transportation. In addition, there is a description of a "Famous Sight"; for China, the Great Wall is discussed, while in Japan, it's Mount Fuji, and in Mexico, stone pyramids. In the latter instance, however, it might have been better to focus on a specific pyramid, such as the Pyramid of the Sun. These informational books are marked by an attractive layout. Each topic is discussed in one paragraph on a separate page, with a relevant, vivid, full-color photograph on the opposite page. Supplementing each book are a glossary, fact page, and a short list of recommended books, as well as several Internet resources. Overall, this noteworthy series presents solid material using simple vocabulary.-Jeanette Lambert, Nashville-Davidson County Schools, TN

Copyright 2014 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

January 1, 2014
These books superficially introduce young children to foreign countries. The easy-to-read text provides little context; while large photos of rugged Afghan mountains and Chinese New Year celebrations (the "dragon costumes" are actually lions) are interesting, readers will have only the vaguest sense of how their young counterparts live in these Asian countries. Succinct country facts are appended. Reading list. Glos., ind.

(Copyright 2014 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)