CD-ROM

-- School Library Journal, 8/1/2006

Social Studies

Gr 5 Up–This program offers an easily navigated, interactive introduction to the United Nations. The seven sections provide general information about the UN, describe its functions and main organs, offer a virtual tour of its headquarters, explain how visitors tour the UN and introduce its multilingual tour guides, interview many of the wide variety of professionals who work there, and showcase the artistic and cultural treasures that grace UN headquarters. Much of the general information about the history and operation of the UN is done in graphics, and each main section is broken into smaller segments for easy navigation. Individual pages have two or three written paragraphs and at least one photo, many of which are interactive and offer 360-degree views. Students will find the virtual tour of the UN and the taped interviews with people who work there very interesting. The tone of the entire program is very positive about the United Nations, emphasizing its contributions and programs, and making no mention of its recent scandals and problems. Although most of the information in this program can be found elsewhere, its “tour” aspects are both interesting and informative. It could be used by either individuals or groups, and is a good choice for schools that need material on the United Nations.–Mary Mueller, Rolla Junior High School, MO

CORRECTION: The correct price of The Life and Times of El Nino (Feb. 2006, p. 69), available from Films Media Group, is $129.95.