Panama

Children's Literature

Although it is one of the least populated states east of the Mississippi River, Vermont remains a place filled with beauty and history. In Vermont over 430 mountain peaks exist with summits higher than 3,000 feet. It has been said that if all of these mountains were flattened Vermont would cover an area the size of Texas. In a more serious vein, readers of Vermont will encounter a region and its people that are quite remarkable. This illustrated book presents the history, geography, recreational habits, economics, and governance of Vermont and its residents. Sprinkled throughout the text are photographs that in many instances are breathtaking. Looking at a mountain valley filled with trees or farmland turned bright by fall's colors takes readers away from day-to-day problems and transports them into a world of great natural wonder. Likewise, the sections of this informative book that deal with state history, cultural affairs, and commercial development all offer solid information in a reader-friendly package. 2006, Benchmark Books/Marshall Cavendish, Ages 14 up.
—Greg M. Romaneck

Children's Literature - Debbie Levy

This illustrated overview of Panama from the 1500s to the present day is encyclopedic in its organization and scope, from geography to government to food and more. The history and economy sections suffer from the book's broad-brush approach; certain discussions are so condensed that they leave important questions unanswered. For example, the authors allude to the beginning of the slave trade in Central America as being a local priest's response to Governor Pedro Arias de Davila's brutal treatment of indigenous people. This aside practically begs for more explanation. Summary paragraphs on banking and the dollar-based currency also raise as many questions as they answer. Chapters that are more directly connected to culture, such as those about the people of Panama, religion, arts, leisure, and food, are more engaging, detailed, and informative. For example, in the chapter entitled "Panamanians," the authors describe a diverse population of ethnic groups that have merged and intermingled to the enviable point where most individuals do not identify with any single group. The chapter on religion discusses a nation that is 84 percent Roman Catholic yet also reflects the traditions and rituals of ancient indigenous groups. Readers are likely to find the chapter about Panama's environment both illuminating and depressing, with its bleak description of a country that is fast squandering its fabulous natural resources. This is a useful introduction to Panama for high school students whose reading and analysis skills are not up to a more sophisticated treatment. The photographs are all in brilliant color and include many engaging, attractive, and interesting shots of people and places. Maps, abrief glossary, and a rather truncated timeline round out the back matter to the book, which is part of the publisher's "Cultures of the World" series.

Children's Literature - Tim Whitney

Each book in this series does an excellent job in showcasing the subtitled state. The text is clearly written and accompanied by frequent maps, charts, and color photographs. Besides presenting information on geography, history, government, and economy, the text also includes brief biographies of well-known people who are native to the state. Includes an index and a section for further reading.

School Library Journal

Gr 4-8Browsing through these series titles is like getting a private, guided tour through each state. The authors cover geography, history, government, population, notable residents, and landmarks in a clear, readable fashion. Brilliant full-color photos and reproductions abound, giving glimpses into historical and modern ways of life. Maps, charts, and graphs are plentiful and informative. Each book concludes with a well-organized survey that includes state bird, flower, song (with music), etc. A time line from prehistoric mound builders (Indiana) to a bicentennial celebration in 1991 (Vermont), and lists of state celebrations and stars are included. Attractive additions for report writers and those looking to flesh out the culture and heritage of these states.Allison Trent Bernstein, Blake Middle School, Medfield, MA