After a short introduction to languages and language families, this easy-to-read overview discusses 21 languages in colorful double-page spreads. Each presentation includes a brief history and boxes focused on specifics: translated numbers, phrases, and a conversation, as well as characteristics of the language and its pronunciation. An attractive map accompanies the list of countries where the language is spoken. The book's concluding section looks at nonverbal languages, such as sign language, semaphore, and Morse code. Two double-page maps, showing how to say hello and good-bye in 48 different languages, use pointers to indicate the locations, languages, and appropriate greetings. In addition to digitally created maps and graphs, the illustrations include many small photos and cartoonlike images. Webb pulls together a great deal of information and presents it in a useful and interesting way. An appealing choice for kids intrigued by languages or geography, this clearly written book will fill a gap in many library collections.