This series looks at how maps are created, special features (e.g., grid, scale, colors) and symbols, and how to read maps. What makes a good map and new mapping technology are explored, as well as older ways of mapping. Much of the information is repeated among the volumes. Each busily designed book includes a map-making activity and an "Are You 'Map Smart'?" quiz. Glos., ind.

BRASCH, Nicolas . Country Maps . ISBN 978-1-59920-414-7 . LC 2010049982. BRASCH, Nicolas . Land and Sea Maps . ISBN 978-1-59920-415-4 . LC 2010049983. BRASCH, Nicolas . World Maps . CIP. ISBN 978-1-59920-416-1 . LC 2010049984. ea vol: 32p. (Map Smart Series). illus. maps. photos. glossary. index. Smart Apple Media . 2012. PLB $27.10. Gr 2-6 A solid and predictable series. Country, Land , and World cover climate, natural resources, economic, physical, political, and road maps. Community covers street, public-transportation, land, building, and precinct maps. Each book includes a chapter about how the specific types of maps are created and one about reading them. Features, which may include a compass rose, grid, landmarks, latitude and longitude, scale, elevation and depth, colors, and symbols, are discussed. In every book, readers will find "Mapoleon," a cartoon character that provides additional "map smart" tidbits; an activity; and a quiz. Illustrations are numerous and the occasional full-color photograph works well with the texts. The writing is clear and informational but not terribly engaging; there is considerable overlap among the titles. That said, they are, nonetheless, solid choices to supplement and support the curriculum. Stephanie Farnlacher, Trace Crossings Elementary School, Hoover, AL