Turkey: A Primary Source Cultural Guide Book

An overview of the history and culture of Turkey and its people including the geography, myths, arts, daily life, education, industry, and government, with illustrations from ...

School Library Journal

Gr 6 Up-Each of these attractively laid out titles presents an overview of the history, culture, and people of the country. The series title is somewhat misleading in that the primary-source component relates primarily to the images, which are listed at the back of the book. However, not all of the photos and reproductions are referenced here, and there is no explanation of why certain images are considered primary source and other clearly archival ones are not. Large print and bold headings make these books easy to read while sidebars and captions provide additional information. Appended material includes a "Cultural Fact Sheet" with life expectancy, literacy figures, and holidays; a "Political Fact Sheet" that includes words to the national anthem as well as information on registered voters and political parties; and an "Economic Fact Sheet" that gives unemployment figures and the percentage of the population below the poverty line. There are some errors and vague statements. Cobb says that elementary students "are taught deductive reasoning-. Students in Mexico are taught concepts and ideas rather than specific facts." Since the author says that this is based on the Spanish and French approach to education, which includes mostly rote learning, this seems to be incorrect. A picture caption in Turkey of an aerial view of Istanbul shows "the Yeni Camii, or New Mosque, the largest Ottoman mosque in Ankara." While these books are visually appealing, and the cultural approach will interest those researching these countries, they lack the well-rounded and highly accurate view portrayed in the "Enchantment of the World" series (Children's).-Kristina Aaronson, Henniker Community School, NH Copyright 2004 Reed Business Information.