Grade 4-7. Although most of the information here can be found in other titles, these volumes are written in a spirited manner. Quotations from famous, infamous, and unknown citizens are sprinkled throughout the texts, adding to the lively style. The authors write with an appreciation of their states' history, characteristics, and inhabitants. The information is up-to-date; Oregon includes discussions of the 1996 flood and the arrival of Keiko, the killer whale of Free Willy fame. Each book is divided into sections on geography, history, government and economy, people, achievements, and landmarks. The full-color photographs, the large detailed representations of the states' flags and seals, and the inclusion of the words and music for each state's song are big selling points.
