Simple and straightforward, each of these new entries in the Countries series opens with introductory spreads that highlight key events in the country’s history and its geographical location, shown on a large world map. Next, brief chapters present the country’s major cities, land, and other notable features. Canada introduces Toronto and Montreal; describes the country’s tundra, mountains, and lakes; notes its bears, bison, moose, and whales; and discusses the Canadian specialties of poutine and maple syrup. France tours French farmland, Mont Blanc, Paris, and Marseille and covers baked goods, boeufbourguignon, and the Tour de France. India includes iconic native animals (Bengal tigers, Asiatic lions, Indian elephants), the cities of New Delhi and Mumbai, the Taj Mahal, and the famous figure Mahatma Gandhi. Morocco includes the country’s beginnings and present government; Casablanca and Marrakesh; typical Moroccan ingredients; and the mountains, plains, and Sahara that cover the country. An additional page features four “awesome landmarks” (most of which are not introduced elsewhere in the book), as well as a one-page glossary and a one-page index. Each spread includes a short paragraph of text, a large photo or map, and usually an inset map or photo. The photos are well chosen, and their size helps evoke the featured locales. Most useful for reference or exploring nonfiction in early elementary grades

Armchair travelers and striving readers will appreciate this colorful introduction to six countries. New vocabulary appears in gray boldface and is defined in the glossary, with no pronunciation guides. Students will learn geographic and statistical information about each country. Every place name and landmark is featured on a map, affording children excellent map-reading opportunities. Topics throughout the series are generally consistent: landscape, major cities, _animals, food. Historical events are presented in some volumes. In addition to being readable and informative, the series is visually attractive, with appealing covers reflecting countriesХ landscapes/character, and high-quality color photos and illustrations. The countrys flag appears in full color on each volumes title page. A glossary, an index, and a QR code for accessing additional information are included. VERDICT Recommended for schools and public libraries. A basic introduction to world nations for younger students that boasts an excellent use of maps.