(4) 4-6 World of Music series. Each book in this series presents accessible information, supported by vibrant photographs, about music from different regions of the world. Topics include the history and cultural influences of music as well as important musical instruments and performers. Double-page spreads sometimes move too quickly from topic to topic in order to cover numerous countries and cultures in a limited amount of space. Reading list, websites. Glos., ind. Review covers these World of Music titles: Europe, Eastern Asia, Western Asia, Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean, and Australia, Hawaii, and the Pacific.

Reviewer: Marika Jeffrey

(4) 4-6 World Art & Culture series. These overviews cover a wide range of media and styles from ancient to modern times. The emphasis is primarily on folk art, although famous artists are covered briefly. African fails to adequately differentiate among distinct cultures. The organization by artistic form rather than chronology makes for muddy historical comparisons. Clear color photos and reproductions enhance the presentation. Reading list, websites. Glos., ind. [Review covers these World Art and Culture titles: African Art and Culture, Indian Art and Culture, Japanese Art and Culture, and Mexican Art and Culture.]

Reviewer: Norah Piehl