Gr 3-5-More than purely drawing instruction, these books also contain information that will be helpful for reports. Each one begins with highlights of the state's history and an explanation of basic shapes and lines that will be used to draw its sights and symbols. The next page discusses the state's name and nickname and gives basic geographic and demographic information. The facing page has a full-size picture, usually a color photo, illustrating the nickname. The third spread gives information about an artist from that state, including a portrait and examples of his work. Following sections show the geographic placement on a U.S. map, provide some information about physical features, and give information about and steps for drawing the official seal and the state flag. Subsequent sections show how to draw the official flower, tree, bird, and landmarks. The instructions for each item are clearly numbered and formulated in easy steps that include several explanatory sentences. Beginning with basic geometric shapes, the pencil drawings are enhanced with red lines indicating new additions to them, making the progression easy to grasp. Full-color illustrations show the completed object. Each book also includes a facts page in chart form. Children working on projects or those who want to draw highlights of their own states, or places they have visited, will appreciate this new concept in art books.-Lynda Ritterman, Atco Elementary School, Waterford, NJ Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information.