Montana

Gr 4–6—Originally published in 2004, these newly updated books are invaluable for students' state reports. The second editions feature new information and statistics from the 2010 census. Each volume contains material that is accessible to different kinds of learners: there are narratives, graphs, text boxes, and more. The page design does an excellent job of incorporating a large amount of information, plus graphs and photographs, without being visually overwhelming. There are many places on each page for readers to hook in and discover interesting facts. Idaho includes stories (positive and negative) about the state, its government, and its people that help bring the location to vivid life. In comparison, Montana is fairly static. While the information is relevant, it is not as lively. Montana does not spend much time discussing the history of Native American tribes from the region or how they live in the state currently. There is, however, a good combination of graphics and photographs in both titles, so readers can pull out statistics with ease. Both books also offer "Quick Facts" on many pages-additional information about events in the state that are not referenced in the main text. There are discussions of state and city names and what they mean, pages of state events and festivals, important dates in state history, recipes, crafts, and more. As state books are always in demand in both school and public libraries, these titles will circulate well.—Susan E. Murray, formerly at Glendale Public Library, AZ