World Book Discovery Encyclopedia

Gr 3 Up—Crisp color images and concise information make up this update of the 2009 edition. In addition to material on notable individuals, events, animals, health topics, literature, holidays, and sports, readers will find features focusing on countries, states, provinces, and other topics. Each entry word is printed in color ink and is also underlined. Most entries also contain a full-color illustration with a color box including a caption. The material is complemented by guide words, cross-references, and pronunciation guidance, and the set also includes an atlas. The letters and volume numbers on the spines and covers are larger than in the earlier edition. The new pictures that accompany information on the camera; the cell phone; Martin Luther King, Jr. Day; Olympic Games; podcasts; the current Supreme Court of the United States; and toys; and several state seals are examples of image changes. Examples of updated entries include "Democratic Republic of Congo," "Barack Obama," and "Iraq War," and new entries cover, for example, "Julia Gillard," "Mitt Romney," "Search Engine," and "Willis Tower." The new and updated material is not enough to warrant purchase in libraries that own the previous edition, but other libraries should consider this resource as it continues to serve as an engaging reference.—Beth McGuire, Hempfield Area School District