Let's Visit Istanbul!

PreS-Gr 2—The globe-trotting Chihuahuas visit monuments and important buildings, discover a bit about the region's history, and learn a little about Turkish culture. Most of these details are relayed through the pups' conversations. The steady stream of sometimes dry facts is interrupted as readers come across a lighter moment when Harry wonders if he will see a flying carpet, and tension rises when Bella becomes temporarily separated from the tour. Amazingly, the pups are able to visit many tourist attractions in just one day. A simple outline map of Turkey and short list of Turkish words/phrases are included. Unfortunately, the book lacks a pronunciation guide, and while there is also no glossary, terms like "minarets" and "menemen" are defined during the story. Exaggerated pictures of Bella and Harry, in brightly colored watercolor illustrations, are a contrast to the more stately renderings of buildings such as the Ortakoy Mosque and Dolmabahce Palace. Lucco's images of people are less defined. This combination of anthropomorphic story and geographical guidebook could be useful in social-studies classes where instructors prefer teaching content through stories. Families traveling to Turkey might find the book a helpful tool in preparing their children for the trip.—Lynn Vanca, Freelance Librarian, Akron, OH