Junior Worldmark Encyclopedia of the States

Gr 4–6—An expanded index and the introduction of color illustrations boost both the user appeal and the usability of this resource. Content has been updated to include census figures, political results, and other data through 2012. The overall format remains unchanged from the 5th (2007) edition: each of the alphabetically arranged articles opens with a column of quick facts, then goes on in 40 numbered sections to describe physical features and historical highlights; to profile economic conditions, populations, and current politics; and to discuss environmental and other issues. Each article contains a cleanly designed map along with several photos and tables, and ends with a tally of prominent native borns, plus lists of Web and recent print resources for further enquiry. Volume 4 includes an overview article on the United States that is modeled on the state articles, entries on Puerto Rico and U.S. Dependencies, and (another new feature) 10 data tables on topics ranging from racial distribution to crime statistics. Aside from the latest editions of general encyclopedias for this audience—which lack comparable levels of detail—there is no single (print) alternative with similar scope and currency; consider this as a first choice for students driven either by curiosity or by class assignments.—John Peters, Children's Literature Consultant, New York City