We Visit China

November 1, 2014

Gr 6-8-Offering substantial detail, books orient "visitors" with an introduction and "Facts at a Glance" page, followed by chapters that discuss each country's physical features, culture and customs, history, economy and language, concluding with a recipe and instructions for a craft project.;Authors emphasize defining characteristics of each country, such as repression in North Korea and economic opportunity in Singapore. There are some weaknesses, including occasional dryness and crowded layouts. Maps are limited to a small map of Asia and a dated-looking country map in each book, and neither includes many of the physical features and locations mentioned throughout the texts. Generic photographs don't always match content, and readers are likely to be frustrated when they don't find photos of locations, animals, and landmarks that the authors describe. These weaknesses will limit readers' enjoyment of their "visits," making books supplemental choices.

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