El Taj Mahal (Taj Mahal)
From the Set Amazing Wonders (Maravillas asombrosas)
The Taj Mahal is one of the world's most amazing wonders. Built in the early 1600s, the grand monument in Agra, India, is a gift of love from a shah to his queen. Translated into North American Spanish, this elementary-level introduction, filled with vibrant photos and factual text, examines the structure and how it was constructed, from its white marble domes to its garden and reflecting pool. The building's significance in history and why it was built are also included. A Wonder Spotlight features the royal couple's tombs. Captions, on-page definitions, and an index support young readers.
SLJ Review of Amazing Wonders (Maravillas asombrosas)
Limited text, large amounts of white space, and full-page illustrations make these books inviting to read. Each title describes the history, location, and significance of a human-made wonder. Along with information on how and why it was built, there is an in-depth look at a key feature from each site. For instance, scientists have now discovered where some of the stones from Stonehenge were originally located. Every wonder has a rich history, but is also a place that can still be visited today. Additional details appear in captions for the images. Vocabulary words appear in color and are defined at the bottom of the page. Words that may be unfamiliar to some readers, such Rapa Nui (ra-pa NOO-ee), also have the pronunciation given. Table of contents, index, and suggested books and websites for further reading are also provided. VERDICT A visually stunning presentation of worldwide historic sites; excellent for primary grade historians.
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