Norway

School Library Journal

Gr 7 UpDespite new covers and a different series title, these volumes are virtually unchanged from their earlier editions as "Places and Peoples of the World" (1990). Updates on population figures and a few sentences on government leaders, the European Union, and future challenges don't justify purchase even if these books were of value. Unfortunately, both volumes are dull, stodgy, and superficial, with inadequate maps and indexes. France overemphasizes geography and doesn't mention the national holiday or flag. There are other titles that are more interesting and attractive, and better organized. Martin Hintz's Norway (Children's Press, 1994) is readable and useful. Sakina Kagda's Norway (1996) and Ethel Gofen's France (1995, both Marshall Cavendish) are colorful and lively. Claudette Charbonneau's The Land and People of Norway (HarperCollins, 1992), while similar to Zickgraf's book in format, includes an extensive annotated bibliography and is more thorough.Ann W. Moore, Schenectady County Public Library, NY