Europe on File

School Library Journal

Gr 6 UpThis two-volume set is divided into 11 sections: one for each of 9 European regions (covering 37 countries), one for the 6 microstates (e.g., Liechtenstein, Malta, Vatican City), and one for specialized regional maps of Europe and the former Soviet Union that cover topics such as languages, deforestation, education expenditures, religions, ethnic minorities, rainfall, and energy consumption. For each country, there are maps depicting political boundaries and transportation routes, regional boundaries and capitals, and physical features. A fact sheet, time line, and charts indicating demographic and economic statistics are also included. A table that presents information about food, dress, family and school life, recreation, and holidays and festivals is a particularly interesting feature. Although the descriptions in the tables include some sweeping generalizations (Austrians are said to have reached "towering achievements in all fields"), students will find many of the tidbits useful for reports. For most countries, there are additional maps that show agricultural areas, industry, and natural resources. However, this feature has been eliminated for the Eastern European nations, since they are covered more thoroughly in other volumes in this series. Readers will find this an accessible resource useful for locating facts quickly. According to the preface, material is current as of November 1996, and regular updates will be issued.Dawn Amsberry, Oakland Public Library, CA

Booknews

The duplicatable maps and fact sheets from Facts on File are like cafeteria food<-->a little bland, but convenient. Anyway, highschool teachers have more to worry about than where else they can find what is presented here (in a three-ring binder): current maps of population centers, transportation routes, physical features, natural resources, and administrative regions together with national demographic and economic statistics, features of culture and everyday life, and basic information on climate, environment, terrain, minerals, ethnic and religious divisions, languages, national leaders, and government form and organization. An overview of some of the serious issues facing Europe, including water pollution, deforestation, refugees, and immigrant labor is also included. Annotation c. by Book News, Inc., Portland, Or.