United States Encyclopedia: America's People, Places, and Events

Gr 4 Up—Every inch of this book is expertly executed. In the first section, "Story of a Nation," the author explains in a succession of tidy spreads how the United States was shaped socially, politically, and geographically by major forces, such as the arrival of the English in North America. Following this foundation building, each state is presented in its own gorgeous four-page chapter. In addition to incorporating the expected material regarding state emblems and population stats, the work includes a concise history for each state, an illustrated time line, and a detailed map. The book is packed with facts, all of which are presented in neatly phrased narratives or in bright, eye-catching sidebars. While much of the material presented is of the report-ready, workaday variety—topography, industry, tourist attractions—some details add narrative sparkle. In keeping with National Geographic tradition, the illustrations in this title are first-rate. The bulk of images are full-color photographs. Archival drawings fill in design gaps.