Canada (Children of the World)

Grade 3-5-- The first half of this book is a vain attempt to introduce readers to a typical Canadian family through a young girl who lives in Nova Scotia. Rachel's circumstances are confusing; they involve a family relocation, a Bulgarian gymnastics coach/houseguest, and a visit from relatives from western Canada. Wright mixes facts with the personal narrative and makes sweeping generalizations, such as, ``Canadians are very mobile.'' The lengthy digressions about Rachel's coach, a visit to her friend's home, and her new dog's trip to Nova Scotia are unnecessary. The latter half of the book, ``For Your Information: Canada,'' is well written and useful for reports. It presents a concise, balanced, and ethnologically correct view of the country's history beginning with pre-European development. An excellent map, suggested projects and activities, and a scanty list of further reading are appended. The inadequate glossary offers only seven terms, including ``cold war'' and ``precedent,'' with no explanation of how they relate to Canada. --Lucinda Lockwood, Thomas Haney Secondary School, Maple Ridge, BC Junior High Up
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.