Poland

School Library Journal

Gr 5-8 A brief overview of Polish history and culture, this book presents a good introduction to the plight and fortitude of the Polish people. Sandak presents the people in a positive, encouraging light, leaving readers with a sense of hope for the future. Beginning with a discussion of the current political situation in the country and the contributions of Lech Walesa and Pope John Paul II, Sandak presents the geography, resources, and people of Poland. Cultural history is highlighted, followed by a review of Polish contributions to the arts and sciences. The tracing of Polish history begins with the Old Stone Age and continues through November, 1985. The writing is clear, concise, and easily understandable, giving readers just enough information to acquaint them with the material being discussed; those looking for in-depth coverage will need to look elsewhere. Black-and-white maps and photographs, mostly of good quality but some a bit soft, illustrate the text adequately. Appended are an annotated list of major cities, a descriptive listing of some famous Poles, and a pronunciation guide. In all, this is a good, current addition to any library serving middle-school age students, updating such books as ``The World and Its People'' series (Greystone; o.p.) or as a complement to newer titles such as Poland in Pictures (Sterling, 1969), which is even briefer in coverage. Denise L. Moll, Farmington Community Library, Farmington Hills, Mich.