Brief overviews of the states provide information on their history, environment, and inhabitants. The writing is bland, but the color photographs are very attractive. Glos., ind.

MURRAY, Julie . Maine . ISBN 978-1-61783-357-1 ; ISBN 978-1-61480-019-4 . LC 2012005983. MURRAY, Julie . Maryland . ISBN 978-1-61783-358-8 ; ISBN 978-1-61480-020-0 . LC 2012005984. MURRAY, Julie . Minnesota . ISBN 978-1-61783-361-8 ; ISBN 978-1-61480-023-1 . LC 2012007060. TIECK, Sarah . Alaska . ISBN 978-1-61783-340-3 ; ISBN 978-1-61480-002-6 . LC 2012000752. TIECK, Sarah . California . ISBN 978-1-61783-343-4 ; ISBN 978-1-61480-191-7 . LC 2012000755. TIECK, Sarah . Colorado . ISBN 978-1-61783-344-1 ; ISBN 978-1-61480-006-4 . LC 2012000754. TIECK, Sarah . Florida . ISBN 978-1-61783-347-2 ; ISBN 978-1-61480-195-5 . LC 2012003046. TIECK, Sarah . Hawaii . ISBN 978-1-61783-349-6 ; ISBN 978-1-61480-011-8 . LC 2012003048. ea vol: 32p. (Explore the United States Series). maps. photos. reprods. chron. glossary. index. websites. CIP. ABDO / Buddy Bks. 2012. PLB $28.50; ebook $28.50. Gr 1-3 Similar in scope to "Our Amazing States" (Rosen/PowerKids Pr), each title is a veritable Chamber of Commerce. In a few short paragraphs per spread, the highlights of each state (geographical location, population, primary industries, landmarks, and early history) are described. A "Hometown Heroes" section focuses on famous people. A mix of modern-day and historical figures connects the past to the present. For example, Francis Scott Key and Michael Phelps are the notables from Maryland. A "Tour Book" spread suggests fun places to visit. A "Fast Facts" section includes date of statehood and other information. Clear color photos and reproductions flanked by stars-and-stripes borders are eye-catching. Simple, straightforward tables of contents and indexes are ideal for students just learning research skills. The content is well organized and the uncluttered layout and ample white space make the large-font text pop.