Wednesday, December 2, 2009

The World Almanac for Kids: 2010

World Almanac Books. (2009). The World Almanac for Kids: 2010. New York: World Almanac Books-Infobase Publishing. ISBN: 9781600571282

· Plot Summary

Beginning with a basic summary of the events in movies, music, and sports for 2009, this almanac is a feast for the hungry fact-finder. It is 333 pages of detailed information on every topic from favorites pets to birthdays of famous persons. It also contains fascinating sections on books and art, famous architecture, true crime, natural disasters, fashion by the decade, gaming, geography, inventions, language facts, military facts, money, religion, travel, and world history. An entire homework help section acts as a great aid for the most common problems faced by tweens in their classes, and a helpful calendar is included to keep them on track with explanations of global and religious holidays.

· Critical Evaluation
A terrific resource for tweens in almost every area imaginable, the broad spectrum ensuring there is something in this book for everyone. Beautiful, full color graphics are sure to keep their attention, and much of the information can be kept for several years to come.

· Reader’s Annotation
Reference material with a layout and design that is sure to please almost every tween.

· Genre
Non-Fiction
Reference

· Reading Level/Interest Age
Grades 4-9/Ages 9-14

· Why did you include this book in the titles you selected?
I enjoy reference books probably more than anyone should, and this one caught my attention because of the bold colors. I expected to find a basic reference almanac, and was astounded at the sheer volume information it contains. At $13.99, is was well worth the cost, and I will probably buy the new version when it comes out.