National Geographic Kids Beginner's United States Atlas

Gr 2–5—Some may say that atlases are passé, given most students' heavy reliance on the Internet, and others may point out that materials on geography are plentiful. Nevertheless, kids will pore over this full-color book. National Geographic's bold, graphic approach ratchets up the cool factor. A detailed legend makes interpreting the maps clear. Divided by region (Northeast, Southeast, Midwest, and West), the volume displays two-page spreads on each state—including a large, intricate, almost-full-page map of the state and notable cities and waterways. Pullouts indicate year of statehood, population, capital, flag, state bird and flower, and an additional fun fact (for instance, Pennsylvania's Hershey is the chocolate capital of the world). U.S. territories (including Guam, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, American Samoa, Northern Mariana Islands, and the Virgan Islands) are identified on a map that shows their geographic relationship to the mainland. A final glossary and page of U.S. facts wrap up the work, which is illustrated with mainly stock but appropriate photography.