GETTING THERE

One of the first in a new series created by World Vision, an international charity (with royalties going to the organization), this very simple look at transportation around the world emphasizes traditional ways of traveling short distances. Attractive color photos shot in many countries by different photographers show kids on yaks, reindeer and motorcycle sidecars. Children swim, walk, wheel wooden bicycles, drive ox carts and sit in wheelbarrows. The text is simple and direct, but there are no country identifications of the photos, no descriptions and no map. Many parents, teachers and librarians will find it almost impossible to identify some of these countries, and curious children will ask. Of course, the book could be the impetus for a beginner’s research project, but the lack of backmatter makes that a challenge. A gorgeous book, but a missed opportunity to help kids learn about their peers. (Early reader. 4-6)