First Fun Science Encyclopedia

School Library Journal

Gr 2-4-A marginal series of titles. Atlas devotes two spreads to each continent (except for Antarctica), with one physical and one political map. Introductory spreads include the Earth in space and world records and statistics. Australia is referred to as Oceania, which may confuse youngsters who have learned the former name. Continent boxed facts vary inexplicably and include anything from countries with the "most TV sets" to countries with the "shortest people." National Geographic Beginner's World Atlas (National Geographic, 1999) is a more attractive, more consistent presentation with a clearer discussion of maps. Dictionary is less impressive; the definitions are presented in incomplete sentences and sound improvised rather than researched. There are no pronunciation guides and parts of speech are not given. The two encyclopedias provide one page per subject, offering cursory information, best suited for browsing. They overlap with more than 40 identical subject headings though a concentrated effort has been made to provide different information. The strongest volume is Thesaurus, which features 85 keyword entries, one per page, with numerous synonyms bringing the total number of entries to more than 800. The clear and accessible presentation also includes opposites for the keywords and sidebars with word histories and related idioms. Each volume contains copious illustrations that range from cartoon clip art to color photographs. The "fun" designation refers to quizzes, word puzzles, and activities peppered throughout the volumes. These titles will not be particularly useful in libraries.-Barbara Auerbach, New York City Public Schools Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information.