Russia (DK Eyewitness Books) - Hardcover

Murrell, Kathleen Berton

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0679891188 ISBN 13: 9780679891185

Publisher: Knopf Books for Young Readers, 1998

Synopsis

Discover Russia--a rich and varied nation that has long held sway over our imaginations. This multifaceted introduction looks at Russia's vast landscape and changing boundaries, her fabled cities of Moscow and St. Petersburg, and her tumultuous history, from the age of the Czars through the rise and fall of Communism. It explores her rich trove of art, literature, music, and traditions; the growth of industry and technology; and life in Russia today. This beautiful and informative volume will be welcomed by students and armchair travelers alike.  

About this title

From School Library Journal

Grade 5 Up-It is rare to find a book that will appeal to such a wide range of readers. While youngsters will be attracted by its visuals, older readers will learn much from the commentaries. Geography, historical periods, and cultural topics are presented in two-page spreads that include an introductory paragraph, colorful illustrations, and fascinating captions. For example, notes accompanying a traditional sleigh point out the significance of its design, the meaning of its coat of arms, and how the construction of the footrest is meant to protect the coachman's feet. Pictures of artifacts and objects from museums and libraries around the world distinguish this book. Included are items of clothing, religious objects, folk art, posters, regalia from tsarist times, and much more to illustrate both the natural and physical world of this culture, its history, and achievements. Teachers will appreciate the many images and fascinating details available in one volume. There are no full translations of the words in the illustrations, but this is a mere quibble not meant to distract from the value of this outstanding book. While this title does not present in-depth information on any one aspect of Russian culture, it does offer an abundance of topics for further research.
Elizabeth Talbot, University of Illinois, Champaign
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Booklist

Gr. 4^-8. Murrell provides an overview of an important country from the earliest time to the present. Following the traditional Eyewitness format, the book presents topics in large double-page spreads, generously illustrated with clear, full-color objects set against a white background. The narrative, composed of brief paragraphs and factoid captions, may be a problem for report writers, but the flow is generally chronological. In addition to history, the author touches upon the land (Russia spans 11 time zones), the various peoples who inhabit the region, religion, architecture (including an explanation of how onion domes are constructed), science and industry, writers and artists, arts and crafts, and culture. This attractive introduction to the changing nation should be popular with browsers. Kay Weisman

About this edition

• Publisher: Knopf Books for Young Readers
• Publication date: 1998
• ISBN 10: 0679891188
• ISBN 13: 9780679891185
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 59