Scandinavia (Artisans Around the World)

From School Library Journal Gr 5 Up-These titles provide a brief overview of each country's history and geography, along with an appealing presentation of local folk art. Well-designed and attractive, all three volumes have excellent color maps, drawings, and photographs that extend the texts. Each book contains chapters about neighboring countries and a sidebar of facts; a time line; an introduction to a local craft and its history; and necessary tools, materials, and safety tips for a related project. The first title features Mexico (aluminum ornaments), Nicaragua (giant puppet), Panama (mola patch), and Guatemala (handwoven pouch). Scandinavia covers Sweden (oro mobile), Denmark (cross-stitch sampler), Lapland (magic drum), and Norway (rosemaling designs). Africa highlights Kenya (beadwork), Benin (story-cloth banner), South Africa (wire toy), and Congo (carved-wood mask). Though the directions are clear and complete, some are quite complex and will require adult help or supervision.-Rosie Peasley, Empire Union School District, Modesto, CA Copyright 2000 Cahners Business Information, Inc.