We Visit Pakistan

November 1, 2011

Gr 4-8-With an emphasis on everyday people, each title humanizes the region for children who might be confused by the political instability depicted in the news. Thoughtful introductions, maps, and "Facts at a Glance" give readers a good starting point. The titles then explore the featured country's history, geography, government, religion, and, most importantly, people. A recipe and an activity, such as creating a cuneiform tablet in Iraq, are included in each book. In particular, Afghanistan, which dedicates a chapter to important people and divides the chapters with subject headings, is noteworthy. However, all of the books present an optimistic look forward while pointing out the obstacles and intricacies of the region.

Copyright 2011 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

February 1, 2012
Grades 4-8 The Your Land and My Land: The Middle East series provides an excellent introduction to the history and geography of several Middle Eastern and Southeast Asian countries from a tourist's perspective. This point of view adds interest and makes the information more accessible. So do the varied illustrations on most pages, including many photos, maps, and reproductions of historic artworks. The books deal appropriately with sensitive topics as well. We Visit Pakistan could feel hypothetical, given the note that the country is currently too dangerous to visit. However, Hinman's discussions of terrorism and al-Qaeda, though present, do not overwhelm her descriptions of the country's history and attractions. The comprehensive back matter of each book includes a one-page recipe and a one-page craft project representing the country; a one- to two-page time line of the country's history, plus any chapter notes; two pages of further reading, including books, works consulted, and websites; a one-page glossary; and a one-page index.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2012, American Library Association.)