Iraq gets a lot of bad publicity. People hear regularly about the country's troubles without learning about its achievements. For example, you've maybe never heard that Iraqis invented the wheel, sailboat, and plow! This title takes young readers past news headlines to tell the full story of Iraq.

One-fifth of all the people in the world call China home. This means Mandarin Chinese is the number one language when it comes to native speakers! In this look at a country rich in history and culture, young readers will learn a few main Mandarin characters and much more.

Lying along the sparkling waters of the Adriatic Sea is the hidden gem of Croatia. From its craggy coast and cascading waterfalls to its delicate lace-making and fast-paced kolo dance, this country is full of natural and cultural beauty. Learn how Croatia's varied history has shaped it into the independent nation it is today in this title for eager students.

In Thailand, history and beauty collide! Beyond its bustling cities, this scenic country features a lush landscape that houses many diverse wildlife species. At the center of it all, a rich cultural heritage lives on in Thailand's many historic Buddhist temples. Young readers will be fascinated by this vibrant title about a unique country and its customs.

Each year, thousands of animals thunder across Tanzania's vast Serengeti Plain during their migration. Nearby, the tallest freestanding mountain in the world towers over the country. Discover what other wonders this East African nation holds in this fact-filled title for students.

Arkansas is full of hidden gems-literally! Beautiful rocks and minerals surface at Crater of Diamonds State Park, a diamond mine open to the public. But there's much more to discover in this southern state. With the Ozarks, hot springs, and the Little Rock Nine, Arkansas shines from east to west.

It's no surprise that Florida is one of the fastest-growing states in the nation. Its sandy beaches and amusement parks attract millions of tourists each year, and the warm, relaxed lifestyle draws retired folks from across the country. Breeze through the land of sunshine and citrus fruits in this informative state profile.

When we think of Alaska, we often think of snow. The state is home to Glacier Bay, the Juneau Ice Field, skijoring, and the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. In this book, discover how the chilled landscapes, abundant wildlife, and native traditions influence life in our nation's northernmost state.

Until 1845, Missouri was the westernmost state and a starting point for pioneers heading farther west. The Gateway Arch in St. Louis pays tribute to this role as "The Gateway to the West." Learn about Missouri's role in the nation today in this state profile for young readers.

Get ready for a trip to beautiful South Carolina! Mountains and beaches make up much of this state's landscape, but there is plenty more to discover. In this fact-filled title, engaging text and beautiful photographs combine to show off the state's history, culture, industry, and more. Maps show important landforms and cities, while profiles highlight people and wildlife, a recipe introduces a favorite food, and a timeline puts history into perspective....