[.ca] National Geographic Beginner's World Atlas (ISBN 0792275020)

From Amazon.com:
Did you know the country of Indonesia is made up of more than 3,000 islands? Or that the world's largest water lilies, in the Amazon River, are big enough to hold a child? Young explorers will be riveted by this big, glorious atlas for children. Chock full of photographs, facts, and maps, it's a terrific introduction to the wonders of the planet. Organized by continent, the atlas breaks down each area into sections on "The Land" and "The People." With both political and physical maps, young readers can begin to grasp the different ways the world is divided. Each section is introduced by a child from that region, in traditional garb, greeting readers in her or his own language. Fun, informative tidbits are presented in an easy-to-digest manner, as well as more complex but still manageable lessons on mapmaking and map reading. National Geographic's world-renowned cartographers joined forces with educational consultants and geographers to create this state-of-the-art world atlas for the youngest, most curious explorers. Stunning full-color photographs reveal the varied landscapes and populations of the planet, and galvanize readers to get out there and see it all for themselves. (Click to see a sample spread. Copyright 1999 by the National Geographic Society.) (Ages 5 to 8) --Emilie Coulter

Educational & Captivating:
Our family is captivated by this atlas. This is a world atlas that focuses mainly on continents, with some interesting facts about the countries with some fun facts. The interesting feature in the books is that it includes a lot of physical and geological information. The readers are able to grasp a perspective of the continents with and without political outlines allowing a geological view. The pictures are bright and captivating. The maps include both physical and political maps on separate pages. The physical maps are great for teaching about map keys, symbols, and geographical features. We've noticed the political maps are consistant with coloring outlines of other National Geographic's Maps. Our children love to trace (with tracing paper) the outlines of the countinents and countries. This adds an added dimension of focus on a country's shape and surrounding geographical factors. We use this atlas as a great geographical resource and recommend the book for grades K - 2nd.

Attractive Product But Inaccurate:
Colorful and easy to read which will appeal to children. But, for a major atlas publisher to let pass the statement "Paris, in France, is Europe's largest city" is inexcusable.