Soccer World

Gr 2—5—A chatty introduction to South Africa using the theme of playing soccer as a universal language. Beginning with a map, the authors touch on the topography, ethnic groups, and various languages that are represented in the country. However, they try to do too much by adding a couple of science experiments, a traditional recipe, and a recycling craft. Illustrations are colorful and add cartoonlike liveliness to the text. While children may recognize Zohn's name as one who dribbled a soccer ball 550 miles from Boston to Washington, DC, adults will know him from reality television shows. It is admirable that the concluding chapter discusses making a difference in the world through participating in charitable groups, but the skewed focus of the book makes it merely a supplemental purchase.—Blair Christolon, Prince William Public Library System, Manassas, VA