Somalia ANNOTATION
Describes the landscape, culture, food, animals, sports, and holidays of Somalia.
FROM THE CRITICS
Children's Literature - Dianne Ochiltree
Here is an educational and enlightening look at Somalia, a country in eastern Africa, the name of which young readers may recognize from news reports yet know little about. Information is presented in a format that is both interesting and easy to use. This sturdy book features a full-color photo of a native child on the front cover, inviting kids to open the pages and find out what it is like to live in Somalia today. The text opens with "Fast Facts" about Somalia, a map of the country and its position on the globe, a picture of the country's currency and a depiction of the national flag, along with an explanation of its symbolic meaning. After this quick introduction, readers are given more detailed information about Somalia's geography, agriculture, educational systems, religions and everyday life. The book ends with hands-on learning activities, along with a brief glossary, and resources for finding out more about this fascinating country. Full-color photos illustrate each chapter. This good addition to classroom or library shelves is a title in the 'Countries of the World' series. 2002, Bridgestone Books/Capstone Press,
School Library Journal
Gr 1-3-A rudimentary description of the landscape, animals, home life, and culture of Somalia. The bare-bones introduction lacks substantial information for reports and has limited appeal as a browsing item. Specifically, there is no coverage of Somalia's history, border warfare, ethnic divisions, and the hardships of famine and an arid climate. The snapshots of the country are oversimplified to the point of being reductive. Though the writing is clear, the dry text mechanically states facts and figures and does not grab children. The book design, however, is a selling point for reluctant readers, who may be drawn to the large typeface and bordered, one-page summaries that are accompanied by color photos. This is a supplemental choice for students beginning a study of the region, but there is nothing exciting or fresh in this cursory presentation.-Ajoke T. I. Kokodoko, Oakland Public Library, CA Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information.
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