In this title in the 1, 2, 3 Suddenly in . . . series (which also explores China, Egypt, and Mexico), Martin's magical necklace allows him to travel anywhere in the world. When he discovers a blue macaw in his backyard, he decides to return it to Brazil, where his adventures take him from Rio de Janeiro to the Amazon. Information about Brazil's people, culture, and geography is presented through lively if sometimes dense text interspersed with Portuguese terms and accompanied by cheery watercolor illustrations. With no sources or further reading suggestions, this is best used as an introduction or additional supplement.

Gr 2-4 When eight-year-old Martin is given the key to his grandfather's secret storeroom, he finds a magic necklace that takes him wherever he requests. His first choice is China where he connects with friends of his grandfather, visits the typical tourist destinations, and brings home a small dragon he names "See-me." The remaining three titles begin in the storeroom and follow the same format with Martin and See-me visiting each country guided by a young friend of his grandfather who lives there. Each title introduces a smattering of historical, cultural, and geographic information. The new-location-per-spread pace results in some awkward transitions, and the full-bleed illustrations fail to add detail to the places visited or the plot. Somewhere between an adventure story and a travel guide, these ambitious titles could serve as introductions to the countries with adult guidance but they will be of limited interest to their intended audience. Carol S. Surges, McKinley Elementary School, Wauwatosa, WI