The Ganges (Great Rivers of the World)

Grade 4-7-Six of the world's important rivers are discussed in these series entries. Each book begins with a large, clear map that shows the river's geographical and political context while the text discusses its dimensions, and the historical, economic, and environmental impact on its respective regions. The narratives are driven by the natural flow of the events and geography described and include a brief discussion of major cities along the river's course. Good-quality full-color photographs and reproductions, all adequately captioned, are found throughout. There are occasional lapses. Sensational facts are mentioned for no other discernible reason than to titillate readers. It hardly helps readers' understanding of The Nile to learn that in 1898 a fanatical Sudanese religious leader's warriors hacked a British army officer to death. Obviously written before the great flood of 1993, Morgan's text states that, "Today, the risk of serious flooding on the Mississippi is not great." Still, for the most part, the titles are clear and conversational in tone and are free of cultural bias while conveying a good deal of useful information.
Linda Greengrass, Bank Street College Library, New York City
Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.