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School Library Journal Review

Gr 2-5--We're becoming an increasingly global community, and knowledge about other countries is vital. This series does an outstanding job of giving youngsters a quick but complete introduction to these countries. Each of the five countries reviewed is presented by a preteen girl. The voice-over narration can be heard in either English or Spanish, and it moves along at a brisk pace as viewers learn about money, flags, religions, geography, landmarks, political systems, and languages. Cultural aspects are examined, such as art, music, and dance. We also learn about food, daily life, transportation, and what local people do for fun. A little history is tossed in for good measure. In China, we learn about Buddha, chopsticks, calligraphy, and the opera. In Iceland, geothermal energy and the Vikings are examined. The Aztec history of Mexico is highlighted. In the Netherlands, viewers visit the Ann Frank house, watch chees being made, and learn about windmills. The program about Rwanda visits mountain gorillas, and provides a brief history of the 1994 genocide. These fascinating, well-organized programs, featuring crisp video and sound, will enhance social studies classes.--Teresa Bateman, Brigadoon Elementary School, Federal Way, WA (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted. All rights reserved.