The Bottom Line
The National Geographic Kids Almanac 2012 is a fascinating book for ages 8-14. The format, the subject matter and the more than 500 photos in this 350-page nonfiction book make it a book that will appeal to kids who love facts, including reluctant readers who will enjoy the format: brief paragraphs of text accompanied by colorful photographs. The contents cover a wide range of topics, from animals and history to games and homework help. Kids will have fun learning with this book. In addition to the book's contents, young readers are also invited to access the companion smart phone mobile content and Internet site.
Pros
- Appealing format, with brief explanations and accompanying illustrations
- Topics that are of interest to upper elementary and middle school age kids.
- Large number of high quality color photographs, plus 20 maps
- Wide range of subjects covered
- Additional online content, including some games and other activities
Cons
- Doesn't cover any of the subjects in depth
Description
- Title: National Geographic Kids Almanac 2012
- Author: A large number of authors, many of whom are experts on specific subjects covered
- Length: 350 pages
- Recommended for: Ages 8-14
- Publisher: National Geographic
- Publication Date: May 2011
- ISBN: 9781426307836
- Categories: Nonfiction, Science, History, Geography, Games
Guide Review - National Geographic Kids Almanac 2012
Contents
The National Geographic Kids Almanac 2012 is divided into 10 sections:- Your World 2012
- Going Green
- Amazing Animals
- Culture Connection
- Super Science
- The Little Big Book of Fun (games, jokes, puzzles, mazes and more)
- Wonders of Nature
- Awesome Adventure
- History Happens
- Geography Rocks.
Online Resources
Throughout the National Geographic Kids Almanac 2012, readers are encouraged to make use of the additional online content. Young people with access to a smart phone can scan the QR (quick response code) at the beginning of each section for related mobile content. Those with access to a computer can go to the suggested links for more content.Opportunities for Action
Along with providing factual information, the book encourages young readers to become actively involved, with such topics as 21 ways you can be a water hero, 10 tips to save Earth, How to observe animals, and Write a letter that gets results.Homework Help
Interspersed with the topic information are brief sections that provide homework help. These include: steps to writing a "perfect essay," tips on doing oral reports, Internet research, writing animal reports for school and developing successful science fair projects.Additional Resources
Additional resources in the National Geographic Kids Almanac 2012 include the 8-page index, 20 full-color maps, several recipes, "weird-but-true trivia," sports information, a sky calendar, a calendar of world holidays and more.My Recommendation
The National Geographic Kids Almanac 2012 is a good book for kids ages 8-14. It is also a book the whole family can enjoy over the dinner table. Sharing an interesting fact a day is a good way to keep your kids reading and thinking over the summer. Because the book can be enjoyed in small segments, the National Geographic Kids Almanac 2012 will also appeal to reluctant readers who enjoy facts but don't like to read anything more than a few pages at a time. Visual learners will particularly enjoy the photos. All and all, I can see young readers dipping into the almanac again and again throughout the year.