South America

Children's Literature

South America is the fourth largest continent in the world and is one of geographic extremes. Home to the longest mountain chain and the driest desert on Earth, South America is also filled with stunning beaches, rich grasslands, and beautiful rain forests. Though it does not delve deeply into the geographic make-up of the continent, different aspects of the continent, from culture and landscape to plants and animals, are presented in turn and offer an adequate look at South America. This brief look at the geography of South America is an excellent introduction to geography. The text is basic, straightforward and easy to read with sidebars appearing throughout that offer additional information about unique characteristics of the land and people of South America. A physical map and a political map are the only two maps provided of South America, but full color illustrations appear throughout. Words appearing in bold in the text are defined in the glossary at the end of the text. Also included are a "South American Almanac," a table of important events in "South American History," additional sources to consult, and an index. Part of the "Geography of the World Series." 2004, The Child's World, Ages 7 to 10.
— Danielle Williams

School Library Journal

Gr 3-5While these introductions are lavishly illustrated with full-color photographs, maps, and drawings, the information is superficial and poorly organized. Each book begins with brief facts about each country and lists its capital, area, population, currency, GNP per person, and principle language and has a picture of the flag. While this encyclopedia-type presentation is succinct, it does not clarify locations or relation to other countries in the region. Each book is organized by topic; e.g., geography, history, peoples, environment, etc., so that not much information about each country is provided. Illustrations with paragraph-length captions dominate each page, but they are as incomplete as the text. Landmarks are often illustrated on one page but not located on a facing map; e.g., Ayers Rock in Australia. The Amazon River is rarely indicated on any of the maps of South America. Political realities are often described in so sketchy a manner that they can be misleading. Sloppy writing throughout is characterized by such illogical linkages as "Gold and silver were highly valued [by the Incas]; this was one of the reasons for the ruthless behavior of the invading Spanish." Too flawed to be serviceable.Frances E. Millhouser, Chantilly Regional Library, VA