Gr 4-6-These handsome titles with enticing covers and an open format are sure to appeal to readers, whether for reports or pleasure. Following a bright, colorful map of the United States on the title page, an opening spread describes the state's nickname, population, year of statehood, tree, bird, flower, gem, fossil, and fish, accompanied by picture inserts. The first of five informative chapters covers the terrain, regions, climate, and flora and fauna; successive sections include history, Native American tribes, and famous explorers such as the expedition of Lewis and Clark in Idaho and the journey of Captain James Cook in Alaska. Diversity, famous people and events, education, and government are also discussed. The texts conclude with information about natural resources, agriculture, and descriptions of the flag and seal and a state map. Written with colorful, descriptive language and varied sentence structure and length, the texts read smoothly and easily. Nearly every page includes a captioned photo, although some in Alaska are not as sharp and clear as those in Idaho. Each book includes a craft and a recipe that uses a product from the state.-Susan Shaver, Hemingford Public Schools, NE Copyright 2005 Reed Business Information.

Each of these state overviews provides general information about its subject--plants and animals, history, people, government--as well as countless specifics, from the state's nickname to a representative dish (recipe provided). Despite the clean, photo-rich layouts, the dry texts won't likely lure anyone who is not a report writer or a resident. Reading list, timeline, websites. Ind.