Synopsis
Step inside Sweden, land of contradictions. Discover the secrets of one of the world’s most equitable economies. Meet King Carl XVI Gustaf, Sweden’s head of state. Meet the rugged Nordic race who inhabit this land of ice, snow, and midnight sun. Let Sweden’s starkly beautiful lake and forest landscapes fill you with serenity.
Children's Literature
Sweden is the third largest country in Western Europe. From north to south it stretches 977 miles, about the distance between Detroit, Michigan and Dallas, Texas. Yet its population is smaller than the comparatively tiny country of Belgium. Carved out thousands of years ago by huge glaciers, Sweden is a land of large forests, long coastlines, and abundant lakes and islands. Almost one sixth of Sweden lies above the Arctic Circle, and it is from this frozen north that the legend of Santa Claus evolved. A model social-democratic welfare society, citizens enjoy "cradle to grave" access to publicly financed health care, education, social services, and economic security. Part of the "Countries of the World" series from National Geographic, students will learn these and other facts about Sweden's history, geography, wildlife, culture, and economics. The text is accompanied by full-color photographs, maps, and informative sidebars. Also included is a timeline of important events, a glossary, bibliography, and suggestions for further reading. One unique feature is an "Add a Little Extra to your Country Report" section, which offers suggestions on things to include in a school research paper to make it stand out from the rest. It all adds up to a quality package that will be a good addition to school and library collections. It is part of the "Countries of the World" series. Reviewer: Pat Trattles