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- Japan (Country Fact Files)
Japan (Country Fact Files)
SKU:
9780811418478
$16.00
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Author: John D, Baines
Publisher: Heinemann/Raintree,1994
Format: Hardcover
Condition: New
ISBN: 9780811418478
2 available
Contemporary Japan is presented under broad topics: landscape, climate, trade, daily life, etc. Each subject is covered in two or three pages with text, full-color photos and graphs, and usually a "Key Facts" box. Information is accurate, and the writing is clear and accessible. Graphs are fascinating as they largely compare Japan with other nations. (The two graphs under "Environment," for air pollution and recycling, provide eye-opening comparisons with the U.S.). The photographs are profuse, well chosen, and well placed. They are not, however, always accurately captioned. "An old Ainu man" is, in fact, a woman (the mustachelike tattoo around her mouth being a beauty aid among traditional Ainu women); the "Sumo wrestling" illustration is actually a photo of one of the all-male matsuri (religious festivals). Unfortunately, the two mentions of fugu give readers the impression that the Japanese eat this fish, poison and all. The indiscriminate bibliography contains books for all age levels, and includes good-quality as well as egregious titles. Nevertheless, this interesting and thoughtful mini-introduction will pique children's interest and lead to more in-depth reading; it will prove even more useful for reports.