MAP WORK

A simple exploration of geography via the continents and the animals that live on them.

The first double-page spread distinguishes the continents from the oceans. The subsequent spreads are devoted to one continent each. A large map of the continent appears in the upper-left corner, and a slightly rough tactile element outlines the land masses for little fingers to trace. Three animals are pictured and named (North America features a bison, a bald eagle and a moose) in the center of the spread. A world map appears in the lower-right corner showing readers where they will be off to next when they turn the page. The final spread has a gatefold panel that opens to reveal a world map with the continents labeled and the animals again pictured in their appropriate locations. Nassner’s images are simple, clear and handsome in muted colors against subtle faux wood grain. The authors explain their approach as rooted in the Montessori method. There is potential for confusion, as the shapes as presented on the opening circular map are inevitably different from those presented on the subsequent flat projection; Antarctica in particular suffers from the transition.

Despite these quibbles, this is a clear and developmentally appropriate introduction to our world for the youngest children.