(3) 4-6 Countries of the World series. These titles touch on the geography, environment, government, history, and culture of each country. Excellent physical, historical, ecological, and political maps and well-selected photographs highlight the topics discussed. Upper-elementary report writers will find the volumes useful. Reading list, timeline, websites. Bib., glos., ind. Review covers these Countries of the World titles: Portugal and Sweden.

Reviewer: Miriam Lang Budin

(3) 4-6 Countries of the World series. Brazil is the fifth-largest nation in the world, with abundant natural resources and half the population of South America within its borders. This overview profiles the nation's rich history, government, people, and culture. Plenty of clear photographs and informative maps contribute to its usefulness for report writers. Timeline, websites. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Miriam Lang Budin

(3) 4-6 Countries of the World series. In addition to the customary information upper-elementary report writers seek--climate, culture, history, government, etc.--this book provides interesting additional tidbits, such as a sidebar about a nine-hundred-year-old salt mine now used as a concert hall (though, perhaps deliberately, some of the book's more controversial historical info is glossed over). Many photographs and maps illustrate the information. Reading list, websites. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Miriam Lang Budin

(3) 4-6 National Geographic Investigates series. This series discusses how archaeologists' work helps us learn about ancient cultures. Each volume highlights major sites and finds; the text touches on the impact of modern history on priceless artifacts and discusses controversies. Sidebars and well-captioned photos expand on the information, as does an interview with a working archaeologist. Reading list, timeline, websites. Bib., glos., ind. Review includes these National Geographic Investigates titles: Ancient Pueblo, Ancient Rome, Ancient Celts, and Ancient Maya.

Reviewer: Kitty Flynn