Synopsis
An introduction to the common characteristics of a suburban community.
Children's Literature
This recent title in the "First Step Nonfiction" series views a suburban community through the eyes of a young girl. Simple maps and drawings are used to clarify the meaning of suburban, also known as "the suburbs." Multicultural families are shown picnicking, playing, shopping, and gardening around their homes. Cars, buses, and trains are shown carrying people where they need to go. The combination of primary colors, crisp photos, and clear language are sure to appeal to the target age group. The simple, 24-page format and repetitive vocabulary make this an accessible text for beginning readers. Further explanation of suburban living is provided in the back matter, along with more facts, a picture and word glossary, and an index. Many early elementary social studies programs teach the similarities and differences between places where people live, making this a strong volume for school and public library collections. Reviewer: Carol Kirkham Martin