I Remember Palestine

School Library Journal

Gr 3-6These series entries have some problems but are generally straightfoward, honest attempts to deal objectively with complex historical and contemporary political issues from the point of view of a child who has emigrated to the U.S. Each book has a full-page map with an inset of the country's location on the globe. Attractive full-color photographs decorate the pages and add understanding. Vocabulary is simple, but, especially in Palestine, unusual words are often used without in-text definition or with the definition coming pages later in a second reference. And while content is generally clear, there is an occasional confusing sentence (``There you can see men wearing red fez hats with flat tops and snake charmers.'') Chapters sometimes begin on the right-hand page, but with related material on the preceding verso, so that readers are into the new topic without an introduction or transition. Coverage is very briefone partial page of large-print text per topicand includes geography, climate, beliefs, city and country life, customs, work and school, and sports and leisure. In spite of their deficiencies, the books are introductory, informative, and even-handed. Consider them if material on these areas is in demand.Rosie Peasley, Empire Union School District, Modesto, CA