Virginia

Children's Literature

Part of the "Celebrate the States" series, this text provides information about the state of Virginia. The book begins with a "Virginia Is…" section. In this section, famous and notable Virginians share their opinions about the state. For example, "Virginia Is" includes Robert E. Lee's quote directed to a child several years after the Civil War had ended: "You can work for Virginia, to build her up again, to make her great again. You can teach your children to love and cherish her." The text itself is organized into chapters, entitled: "A Glorious Paradise" (geography), "The Colonie of Virginia" (history), "Plain, Honest…Neighbors" (people), "Governing the Old Dominion" (government), "Making a Living" (economy), and "Exploring Virginia" (landmarks). In addition to the organized chapters with helpful information, a "State Survey" section is provided, including information about the flag, the seal, the capital, the nickname, the song, geography, a time line, economy statistics, a calendar of celebrations with web sites, etc. The "State Stars" segment lists and describes famous politicians, authors, athletes, actors, actresses, etc. from Virginia. Other helpful elements include: "Fun Facts;" "Tour the State;" references for books, web sites, videos, and software, and author information; an index; and many colorful pictures, charts, maps, and so on. Students interested in state history and/or government, Virginians interested in knowing more about the land in which they live, enthusiastic travelers, and US/VA History teachers would greatly benefit from reading this piece. 2006, Marshall Cavendish, Ages 9 to 12.
—Jamaica Johnson Conner

School Library Journal

Gr 4-7-Similar to books in the "America the Beautiful" series (Children's Press), these titles cover standard facts: geography, history, government, economy, landmarks, and regions. They are attractively illustrated with clear maps, charts, and pie graphs. Photos and reproductions of original documents add to overall effectiveness. The texts are interesting while sticking to a strict series format. The fast-facts sections have most data required for basic reports, including the flag, sheet music for the state song, and a recipe. In these revisions of the 1997 editions, most illustrations were updated, but the original texts were only slightly reworked. There are several completely new sections, including the EPA battle over Zebra mussels in Illinois and the September 11, 2001, attacks in New York and Virginia. Population and economic charts and texts have been updated and pie charts have been improved to show percentages instead of just a shape divided into sections. Excellent additions for reports or general interest.-Sharon R. Pearce, Chippewa Elementary School, Bensenville, IL Copyright 2006 Reed Business Information.

School Library Journal

Gr 4-8Comparable to the "America the Beautiful" series (Children's), these volumes are divided into chapters on geography, history, government and economy, people, achievements, landmarks, and state survey. The latter section is especially interesting, with information about symbols, celebrations, famous people, and tourist sites. Both books have large, clear, full-color photos or reproductions on almost every page. Each title also has four maps, the words and music to the state's song, and a typical recipe. In some cases, the predetermined organization is awkward. However, both books are well written and will be useful for reports.Denise E. Agosto, Midland County Public Library, TX