Review by School Library Journal Review
Gr 9 Up-This documentary series brings viewers to some of the world's harshest landscapes. Disc one covers the deserts of Judea, the Thar in India, and Namib in southern Africa, while the second travels to the Atacama in Chile, the Australian outback, and the Gobi in Mongolia. These programs highlight natural geography and wildlife and the lives, customs, and struggles of the local peoples. Additionally, the series examines the rapidly transforming economies of many desert communities, as traditional societies integrate, accommodate, and assimilate to 21st-century transnational economics. For instance, the Gobi-set episode illustrates how many Mongolian herders are choosing to work in industrial gold and copper mines. Similarly, the profile of the Namib includes extensive background on the Himba people-and parents and teachers should be aware that there is nudity in this segment. Viewers will also encounter many fantastically beautiful locations that may not be well known to Western audiences, including the "Golden City" of Jaisalmer in India. These programs also discuss domestic animals and wildlife, including camels, elephants, and snow leopards, and incorporate important social concerns, such as HIV/AIDS in Africa. Environmental issues and their economic impacts are also introduced: sinkholes, flash floods, and the receding shoreline of the Dead Sea. Each hourlong episode is smoothly paced. Featuring soothing music, these programs are a gentle and erudite experience. VERDICT This geographical tour is highly recommended for high school classrooms and public libraries.-Jeffrey Meyer, Mount Pleasant Public Library, IA © Copyright 2016. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
(c) Copyright Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
