Greece

Children's Literature

Lying on the Mediterranean, Ionian, and Aegean Seas on the Southern coast of Europe, Greece is a country rich in history and tradition. The land of Greece is rugged and dry; and over 2,000 islands are a part of the country, although only 170 are populated. Greece has one of the oldest histories in the world, and this history can be felt throughout this country filled with ancient ruins. Although once an ancient power, Greece has been ruled by several different countries over its long history, most of which can still be seen reflected in contemporary culture, which is a blend of Turkish, Armenian, and Macedonian culture; its people reflect the same ethnic backgrounds. Several different aspects of Greece, its environment, people, and traditions are presented in this glimpse at the country. Fully illustrated with black and white and color photographs, the text itself is easy to read and provides a decent first look at Greece. A chart of country facts, Greece trivia, and a chart of words in Greek with a pronunciation guide appear after the text. Also included are a glossary, an index, and a website with links to additional sources to consult. Part of the "Faces and Places" series. 2003, Child's World,
— Danielle Williams

School Library Journal

Gr 2-4-This title, another in a seemingly countless series of books on modern Greece, has several strong points. Basic information is presented in a straightforward manner in two-page chapters and accompanied by excellent photos. Facts are clear, and important topics are covered, with the exception of ancient Greece, which is relegated to a few sentences under the chapter "Long Ago" and "Greece Trivia" at the back of the book. (No mention is made of the fact that Greece is considered the world's first democracy.) The clean layout features large print and plenty of white space. Captions for the pictures are found on bright postage-stamp shapes. The first spread, "Where Is Greece?" offers two small globes showing the eastern and western hemispheres, a small map of the world, and a full-page physical map of Greece (with no labels). However, later spreads include tiny two-inch maps marking the cities and areas discussed in those chapters. The pronunciation guide has a few mistakes. Children are also directed to the publisher's Web site, which has links to reliable sources, although much of the information at these sites is for an older audience. Collections needing country studies at the basic level might find that this title fits the bill.-Judith Constantinides, formerly at East Baton Rouge Parish Main Library, LA Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information.