Welcome to Ireland

Children's Literature

This book in the "Welcome to My Country" series includes the things a child looks for in report writing¾convenient headings and a presentation of generously illustrated, double-page spreads. Topics covered include the geography (and a map at the end, with states or provinces named, but very few cities identified), short history, people and lifestyle (with a three-page section about Sinn Fein and the disputes between the Protestants and Catholics), arts and leisure, food (lamb, "chippers" and Irish coffee), and a "Quick Facts" section. Pictures are fresh, all in full color except for archival material, and useful¾for instance, when a reader wants to know what money or the flag look like. Also includes a glossary of words specific to the culture plus of words more generally defined, a section of more books to read, but with no trade books set in the country, videos, web sites and an index. 2001, Gareth Stevens, $22.60. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Susan Hepler