(3) 4-6 America the Beautiful series. A cross between a social studies textbook and a tourist guide, each attractive, readable volume describes a state's history, geography, industry, culture, and famous citizenry. Glossy pages, detailed maps, helpful definitions (which are neatly incorporated in the text), and sharp reproductions of photographs and other artwork make the books useful for upper-elementary and middle school students in search of report resources. Time lines and "Fast Facts" sections are appended. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Tanya D. Auger

(4) 4-6 First Book series. Largely a bust for all but a lucky few of the 100,000 who rushed to the Klondike region in 1896, the Klondike Gold Rush created a subculture of amateur prospectors almost overnight. This informative, loosely organized account examines this makeshift society--how people lived there, searched for gold, and coped with the inflated economics. Small color maps and black-and-white photos supplement the text. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Jack Forman