From Amazon
The Kids Book of Canada is a made-to-order school project resource book about the world's second-largest country. Anyone seeking a general overview of this vast, diverse nation will be pleased to find so much information laid out in such an accessible manner. The four pages devoted to each of Canada's provinces and territories, and to the country as a whole, contain a short description of distinguishing factors, a quick facts box, and an illustrated map accompanied by notes--about the geography, points of interest, people, and events--that bring each part of the country to life. A timeline in each section traces the region's history from the arrival of Aboriginal peoples to the present. This condensed selection of material covers the basics, but it also features the surprising details that make each province or territory unique. For example, did you know that the oil-drilling project Hibernia off the coast of Newfoundland is in the path of hundreds of drifting icebergs that have to be pushed away by small boats?
There is a wealth of clear, colourful illustrations (although some of the portraits bear little resemblance to their subjects). Author Barbara Greenwood, who has a long history of turning research into engaging (and award-winning) historical fiction such as A Pioneer Story: The Daily Life of a Canadian Family in 1840, met with children and teachers across the country to make sure this book included content relevant to them. Her efforts have resulted in a concise, easy-to-read book about Canada. (Ages 8 to 12) --Martha Johnson
From School Library Journal
Gr 4-7--A glimpse at Canada from coast to coast. Each province and territory is treated in two double-page spreads that include a clear, eye-catching map and an abundance of illustrations. The text is concise and readable. Boxed facts give statistical information, while other sections describe the coat of arms, flag, flower, bird, tree, and landscape. The historical highlights are written to inform, intrigue, and interest readers as well as to give them a general view of the changing history of each region. Unfortunately, the illustrations are of a poor quality. Surely the time is over for a colorful, decorative-only approach to nonfiction for children that features fuzzy, overgeneralized renderings of landscapes, animals, and people. They reflect a lack of talent in drawing people, lack of research, and a poor integration of art and text. This one is embarrassing.
Ronald Jobe, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
Copyright 1998 Cahners Business Information, Inc.
