Reading Level: Grade 4 Interest Level: Grades 3 – 7
Once part of the mighty Ottoman Empire, Turkey has a long and rich history. Stretching into both Europe and Asia, it is a land of mountains, lakes, and coastal plains. Travel to Turkey and experience both the ancient relics of the Ottoman Empire and the vibrant culture of modern Turkish people.
This upbeat, easy-to-read set introduces each country with richly photographed spreads about standard geographical topics such as land, unique and exotic wildlife, populations, daily life in urban and rural areas, education, work, entertainment, food, and holidays. Closing spreads highlight something that is distinctive to the titular nation, such as the Panama Canal or eagle hunters in Mongolia. “Fast Fact” and “Did You Know?” boxes add interesting trivia. Text averages one to two paragraphs per spread, making the large photos of interesting places, human activities, and plants and animals the set’s strongest element. VERDICT Supplemental choices for reports or nonfiction reading.
