The last decade has seen an explosion of innovative and sophisticated digital mapping technologies—and National Geographic has been at the forefront of developing these powerful new tools to create the finest, most functional and informative atlases available anywhere. This compact, easy-to-use format is the first product built on our newly developed, cutting-edge cartographic database. It offers the convenience of smaller scale without sacrificing clarity or detail; instead, identically-scaled maps on a given continent enable readers to compare physical, political, and regional information simply and accurately. After a fascinating explanation of the latest technology, the atlas examines our world as a whole, presenting 25 global themes, from tectonics, the biosphere, and energy sources to population, health, literacy, and more, along with such timely topics as environmental stress and flash points for conflict and terror. Next it explores each continent with special spreads assessing the global economic impact of each. The oceans and the polar regions follow providing complete, consistent coverage. Finally, comprehensive appendices present world political information, statistics, and geographic comparisons organized for quick and easy reference. In addition, access to a companion web site will provide continuing and complimentary information making this Atlas truly state-of-the-art and up-to-the-minute. Grade 8 Up–This is a compact adaptation of National Geographic Atlas of the World (2005). Recent advances in mapping technology are evident in these 250-plus maps and 50 satellite images that present data on the political, physical, human, and economic worlds. Introductory entries discuss cartography in the 21st century and its use in interpreting global issues. The World presents visual and short textual global overviews of subjects such as Transportation, Defense & Conflict, Communication, Health & Literacy, Trade & Globalization, and Biodiversity. Next, sections on each continent provide maps, charts, and text on the continent and then on subregions, by theme. The maps mostly use the same scale, making comparisons easy. World Facts follows, preceding an exhaustive place index. A companion Web site provides a photo gallery, atlas updates, and customized maps. Though this work is jammed with fascinating information, maps and graphs are smaller and fewer (maps of the solar system and of cities are not included). Material near the gutters is hard to decipher, as is much of the small, light print on the reduced maps. The Collegiate Atlas provides a lot of information and is suitable for home use, but libraries would be better off with the earlier edition. –Peg Glisson, Mendon Center Elementary School, Pittsford, NY Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. Used Book in Good Condition