Waldron, Melanie. How to Read a Map.

Waldron, Melanie.  How to Read a Map.  Capstone/Heinemann     2013  32p ISBN 978-1-4109-4899-1 series: Let’s Get Mapping  elem  E-Bnes  Nonfiction          

This slim book provides an excellent introduction to the basic skills necessary to read a map correctly.  Beginning with an overview of different types of maps, the author discusses the categories of information found on maps, including symbols, compass roses, color shading, contour lines and spacing, map scales, latitude and longitude lines, and directions on how to use the map.  Each topic is covered in a two-page spread highlighted with clear color photographs of the maps described and of children using these maps.  The book ends with a picture of a map and questions relating to this map with included answers, a glossary, bibliography of books and web sites, and an index.      

This excellent new series includes books describing how to read a map, mapping communities, mapping information, mapping the land and weather, mapping the world, and types of maps.  Each includes a mapping activity as the culminating exercise.       

Summary: This slim book provides an excellent introduction to the skills necessary to read a map correctly.        

Maps                                                        --Susan Ogintz

Somervill, Barbara. The Story Behind Maps.

Somervill, Barbara.     The Story Behind Maps.  Heinemann (Capstone), 2012.   32p.  $29.00  ISBN 978-1-4329-5443-7      elm/ms      VG-BN      

     A small book with a lot of information, this title presents information about the different types of maps in existence since the first one was created, what maps represent, how to read maps, how technology has been integrated into mapmaking, and the historical figures involved in mapmaking.      

     If this book were an audiotape, the information presented would be considered to be that of sound bites. All of the information here (and there is a lot) is presented in its most abridged form, and this is how the author has managed to be very concise and informative about such a broad topic. Checkmarked side bars are used throughout, highlighting specific bits of information, such as "Ptolemy’s Geographia," on page 7 and "The Equator" on page 17.  The book concludes with a timeline, glossary, references for further information (both print and web), and an index.      

     This book belongs to the series True Stories, and if other titles in the set are as informative and comprehensive, the series would be a welcome addition to any elementary-school, middle-school or public-library collection.     

Subject: Maps    

Lynn Fisher