(3) 4-6 Enchantment of the World series. This survey celebrates the biodiversity and rich cultural heritage of the Latin American country, examines the nation's history and government, and honestly looks at its social problems including drug trafficking and homeless children. Attractive color photos and appealing descriptions of carnivals, soccer, and traditional foods will draw readers to the book. A time line is included. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Peter D. Sieruta

(3) 4-6 Enchantment of the World series. A smoothly written text covers England's political and economic history, religious beliefs, and popular culture. Numerous color photographs make the book inviting, and a useful time line juxtaposes England's history with events in world history. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: The Horn Book, Inc.

(3) 4-6 Enchantment of the World series. This accessible overview naturally focuses on the country's racial divide, discussing the history of apartheid and the eventual end of legalized racism. The clear text, illustrated with color photographs, also touches on the country's geography, wildlife, and diverse population, making the volume a well-rounded general introduction. A time line aligns South Africa's history with events occurring in other parts of the world. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Peter D. Sieruta

(3) 4-6 Enchantment of the World series. A fluid text and clear color photographs deliver a well-rounded portrait of Iraq. The country's history, political and religious influences, and daily life and customs are explored in a volume that also addresses the regime of Saddam Hussein and its consequences for the average citizen. A time line helpfully compares events in Iraq's past to world history. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Peter D. Sieruta

(3) 4-6 Enchantment of the World series. This overview of the island continent's history, natural resources, and Aboriginal and immigrant cultures is written in accessible prose and abundantly illustrated with color photographs. Readers will be intrigued by the description of outback students who attend school via radio; information on sports, entertainment, and Aussie foods adds more kid-appeal to the book. A time line contrasts Australia's past. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Peter D. Sieruta

(3) 4-6 Enchantment of the World series. A smoothly written text follows Egypt from the Old, Middle, and New Kingdoms through Roman, Arab, then British rule, to independence. Ancient and modern customs, religious practices and political beliefs, as well as the arts and leisure activities are covered. Large color photos make the book inviting, and a useful time line juxtaposes Egypt's history with events in world history. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: The Horn Book, Inc.

(3) 4-6 Enchantment of the World series. This book honestly examines the political, religious, and economic turmoil of Haiti, but does not neglect the island country's geography, wildlife, and culture. The fluid text and clear color photographs also touch on topics such as entertainment, sports, foods, and holiday celebrations. A time line compares Haiti's history with concurrent events in world history. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Peter D. Sieruta

(3) 4-6 Enchantment of the World series. A broad overview examines the geography, population, wildlife, and often troubled political history of this South American country. The book also includes information on more commonplace interests involving food, sports, and leisure. These entertaining topics, along with the accessible text and clear color photographs, will draw readers. A time line tracks Argentina's history against events in world history. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Peter D. Sieruta

(3) 4-6 Enchantment of the World series. An appreciation of the Scandinavian country covers a broad selection of topics, including geography, history, and nature. Especially appealing are the sections devoted to daily life, including the celebration of holidays, favorite sports, and favorite foods. The accessible text and clear color photographs make the book enjoyable for armchair tourists. A time line shows Sweden's history alongside world events. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Peter D. Sieruta

(3) 4-6 Enchantment of the World series. Clear color photographs and an accessible text make this trip to Thailand enjoyable. The book presents a fast-paced overview that traces the country's history, explores the role of the Thai monarchy, and looks at the cultural influence of Buddhism. Everyday interests, such as foods, clothing, and entertainment, add reader appeal. A time line tracks Thailand's history against historical events around the world. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Peter D. Sieruta

(3) 4-6 Enchantment of the World series. This survey of the Central American nation is enhanced by the clear color photographs on every page. The accessible prose explores Costa Rica's history, economics, and natural resources. Information on holidays, sports, and entertainment is an added attraction. A time line contrasts Costa Rica's history with world events. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Peter D. Sieruta

(3) 4-6 Enchantment of the World series. An overview of Mexico and its culture looks at the country's history, government, wildlife, and people. Although the tone is appreciative throughout, the volume realistically addresses many of Mexico's problems, including poverty, pollution, and the issue of illegal immigration. The text is clear, and the accompanying photographs are appealing. A time line contrasts Mexico's history with events in world history. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Peter D. Sieruta