Ireland
by Colleen Sexton
read by Dana Fleming
Part of the Exploring Countries series
A country of open fields, Ireland is known for its agriculture. It is also known for its unique step dancing and St. Patrick's Day celebrations. This book teaches children about life in a country of lush green land and lively, laid-back people.
The Dominican Republic
by Walter Simmons
read by Mandy Kaplan
Part of the Exploring Countries series
The Dominican Republic was the first place Christopher Columbus landed when he sailed to the Americas from Europe in 1492. Today, the people of this Caribbean nation are known for their love of music, dance, and baseball. In this title, readers will learn about the geography and culture of the Dominican Republic.
The Philippines
by Derek Zobel
read by Dana Fleming
Part of the Exploring Countries series
An archipelago of over 7,100 islands in Southeast Asia, the Philippines sit near the Pacific Ring of Fire, an area often affected by earthquakes and volcanoes. With a long coastline and many rain forests, the country contains a variety of plant and animal life. Children will find out what else makes the Philippines unique in this informative title!
Russia
by Jim Bartell
read by Dana Fleming
Part of the Exploring Countries series
Moscow's Red Square is a center of Russian history and culture. This book explores the physical and cultural geography of Russia, showing the reader what daily life is like in Russia and how Russians keep their cultural traditions alive in the modern world.
Germany
by Walter Simmons
read by Dana Fleming
Part of the Exploring Countries series
For over a quarter century, Germany stood as a country divided. A huge concrete barrier known as the Berlin Wall physically divided the capital of Berlin. When the wall came down in 1989, Germany was reborn. Readers will learn what daily life is like today for the innovative and industrious people of Germany.
China
by Walter Simmons
read by Dana Fleming
Part of the Exploring Countries series
China, with over one billion people, is the most populated country in the world. China's most famous tourist attraction is the Great Wall, which runs across about 5,000 miles of northern China. Rich with Chinese culture, this title explores Chinese food, holidays, and daily life. Eager readers will also get to challenge their tongues with a few common words from the unique Chinese language!
Cuba
by Walter Simmons
read by Dana Fleming
Part of the Exploring Countries series
Cuba is a group of several islands. Long ago, one of the islands was called Treasure Island because it was a home base for many Caribbean pirates. Young readers will learn about life in modern Cuba-the school system, the delicious food, and the vibrancy of Cuban culture.
Vietnam
by Walter Simmons
read by Dana Fleming
Part of the Exploring Countries series
Vietnam is famous for Ha Long Bay, a unique bay that formed over millions of years. Its scenic isles draw tourists from around the world. It is one of several marvels in Vietnam. Readers will explore other geographic features of Vietnam as well as the culture and traditions of the Vietnamese people.
Scotland
by Derek Zobel
read by Dana Fleming
Part of the Exploring Countries series
Famous for bagpipes and kilts, the Scottish are rooted in tradition. They are also a hardy people. They thrive in a part of the United Kingdom where the weather reaches extremes. This title introduces young readers to Scotland, a country with highlands, lowlands, and a rich heritage.
Israel
by Walter Simmons
read by Dana Fleming
Part of the Exploring Countries series
Israel is a country with deep religious roots. It is considered the homeland of the Jewish people. In this book, young readers will be introduced to Israel's devout people, historic landmarks, and foods that create an interesting and unique cultural heritage.
France
by Rachel Grack
read by Dana Fleming
Part of the Exploring Countries series
France's most famous icon is the Eiffel Tower. This tower in Paris is the height of an 81-story building and ranks as the most visited monument in the world! This book introduces children to the classic beauty, revolutionary people, and fine foods of a country known for the arts.
Egypt
by Walter Simmons
read by Dana Fleming
Part of the Exploring Countries series
Egypt is one of the oldest countries in the world. People love to visit the ancient pyramids outside of Cairo, the capital of Egypt. Thousands of years ago, pharaohs ruled Egypt, and people mummified many pharaohs after they died. Students will read all about mummy museums, school and work life in Egypt, and how Egyptians use the Nile River in their daily lives.
Chile
by Lisa Owings
read by Dana Fleming
Part of the Exploring Countries series
Chile is a long, narrow country that stretches along the Pacific Ocean on the west coast of South America. It has many different landscapes, including the Atacama, the driest desert in the world! Young readers will explore Chile's landscapes, discovering the famous Easter Island statues, the diverse wildlife, and the people that call the country home.
England
by Walter Simmons
read by Dana Fleming
Part of the Exploring Countries series
The Queen is England's most recognizable symbol. Her Royal Guards stand at attention to protect London's famous Buckingham Palace. In this book, young readers will discover the landmarks, traditions, and food of a country known for sophistication and afternoon tea.
Argentina
by Kari Schuetz
read by Dana Fleming
Part of the Exploring Countries series
The second-largest country in South America, Argentina is known for its fertile plains, the rugged Andes Mountains, and the beautiful land of the Argentine Patagonia. The people of Argentina work on the land and in cities, enjoying music, dancing, and sports in their free time. Learn all about Argentine food, culture, and daily life in this informative title!
Sweden
by Rachel Grack
read by Dana Fleming
Part of the Exploring Countries series
Located in Scandinavia in Northern Europe, Sweden experiences some very cold weather. Many polar bears call Sweden home! In addition to the wildlife of Sweden, this title introduces readers to the physical geography of Sweden, its traditions and customs, and how Swedes live from day to day.
Italy
by Walter Simmons
read by Dana Fleming
Part of the Exploring Countries series
Sticking out into the Mediterranean Sea, Italy has some of the nicest weather in Europe. It is famous for its art, architecture, and cuisine. Readers will discover the physical geography of Italy through descriptions of the landscape, waters, and coasts. They will also learn about the cultural geography of Italy, reading about Italian schools, businesses, and communities.
Haiti
by Jim Bartell
read by Dana Fleming
Part of the Exploring Countries series
Haiti is a country that has experienced many hardships-most recently, a devastating earthquake in January of 2010. It is also a country with a rich history and a culture that is famous for its unique, colorful painting and sculpture styles. Readers will learn about Haiti's landscape, its vibrant culture, and the work being done to rebuild Haiti today.
Japan
by Colleen Sexton
read by Dana Fleming
Part of the Exploring Countries series
Japan is a nation made up of many islands in the western Pacific Ocean. Over 100 million people live in this small nation of islands. Many live in the countryside, but millions live in crowded cities like Tokyo. Students will learn about the physical features of the landscape and surrounding waters as well as the cultural aspects of the Japanese from old traditions to modern everyday life.
Australia
by Colleen Sexton
read by Dana Fleming
Part of the Exploring Countries series
Take a trip to "The Land Down Under" and discover all of the unusual wildlife inhabiting the Outback! There are kangaroos, wild dogs called dingoes, and nearly 700 types of birds in Australia. This title will also take readers to the Great Barrier Reef and to some of the largest cities in Australia, showing kids the daily life and culture of Aussies.
Brazil
by Colleen Sexton
read by Dana Fleming
Part of the Exploring Countries series
Brazil is the largest country in South America and the fifth largest and most populated country in the world. The Amazon Rainforest in Brazil has the greatest biological diversity of any ecosystem on the planet. Students will learn all about Brazilian culture and get a glimpse into what kids do for fun in Brazil, especially discovering the country's love for soccer.
Iraq
by Lisa Owings
read by Dana Fleming
Part of the Exploring Countries series
Did you know that Iraq was home to the oldest known human civilization on Earth? This area used to be known as Mesopotamia, and many different ancient peoples lived there. Readers will learn about daily life in Iraq, contemporary Iraqi culture, and the changes the country is going through today.
Iran
by Walter Simmons
read by Dana Fleming
Part of the Exploring Countries series
Iran is an ancient country that used to be called Persia. The Persians were one of the oldest civilizations on Earth, and Persian culture has a strong presence in Iranian culture today. In this book, explore Iran's rain forests, national cuisine, and the traditions of a people that trace their roots back thousands of years.
Denmark
by Derek Zobel
read by Dana Fleming
Part of the Exploring Countries series
Denmark has consistently been ranked as one of the happiest countries in the world. It has a high standard of living, an impressive literacy rate, and an industrious economy. In this title, discover more about a land famous for its fairy tales, innovative culture, and lively people.
India
by Jim Bartell
read by Dana Fleming
Part of the Exploring Countries series
India is the place to find the stunning Taj Mahal and the world's tallest peak, Mount Everest. Mount Everest rises nearly 5 miles into the sky! Children will learn all about India, a country known for mountains, curry, and the world's second largest population.
Afghanistan
by Lisa Owings
read by Dana Fleming
Part of the Exploring Countries series
Afghanistan borders seven different countries and is a connection point for East, South, West, and Central Asia. It has long been a center of trade and culture, with many different civilizations throughout history calling it home. In this title, students will read about Afghanistan's wildlife, landscape, culture, and more.
Guatemala
by Kari Schuetz
read by Dana Fleming
Part of the Exploring Countries series
Guatemala, a hotspot of unique wildlife, boasts 100 rivers, over 250 wetland areas, and many famous volcanoes. Read about this beautiful Central American country and experience the daily life of the Guatemalan people, from work and school to fun and play.
Kenya
by Jim Bartell
read by Dana Fleming
Part of the Exploring Countries series
Travel to Kenya and see if you can spot giraffes, elephants, lions and other African animals! Dinosaur bones and giant crocodile fossils discovered in Kenya reveal that the country has been home to a variety of wildlife for millions of years. Learn more about Kenya's wildlife, and explore Kenyan culture and the diversity of people that call this beautiful place home.
Greece
by Jim Bartell
read by Dana Fleming
Part of the Exploring Countries series
This ancient country is considered the birthplace of Western civilization. Tourists can walk on the grounds of the first Olympic Games, see the mythical Mount Olympus, and visit the Acropolis of Athens, where people gathered thousands of years ago. Read all about Greece and its traditions, from old to new, in this informative title.
South Sudan
by Lisa Owings
read by Dana Fleming
Part of the Exploring Countries series
After decades of war, South Sudan became an independent country in 2011. Though its people face struggles as they build their new nation, they do have reason for national pride. Their country contains Bandingilo National Park, which hosts one of the largest annual animal migrations. This title describes the birth of South Sudan and its efforts to create a national identity.
Switzerland
by Derek Zobel
read by Dana Fleming
Part of the Exploring Countries series
Famous for the snowy peaks of the Swiss Alps, Switzerland is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts all over the world. Swiss alpine culture is also known for a long wooden horn called the alphorn and the tradition of yodeling. Explore the stunning landscapes, unique culture, and bustling cities of this small European country.
Spain
by Rachel Grack
read by Dana Fleming
Part of the Exploring Countries series
Ever feel like you need a nap in the afternoon? Spain is famous for its cultural tradition of the siesta. For a few hours every afternoon, people go home from work to nap! Kids will learn about the land and water features of Spain and the traditions, cuisine, and everyday life of its people.
Pakistan
by Walter Simmons
read by Dana Fleming
Part of the Exploring Countries series
Pakistan became a country in 1947 after the Muslim people of India fought for the creation of an independent state. Now, Pakistan is the second most populated Muslim-majority country in the world. Young readers will learn about Pakistan's geographic features, its abundant wildlife, and the strong culture of its people today.
Thailand
by Walter Simmons
read by Dana Fleming
Part of the Exploring Countries series
Boasting some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world, Thailand is located in Southeast Asia. It has many beaches that attract tourists from all parts of the globe. Kids will learn about the cultural traditions of Thailand, what everyday life is like for Thais, and much more in this informative book.
Canada
by Colleen Sexton
read by Dana Fleming
Part of the Exploring Countries series
America's northern neighbor, Canada, is similar to the United States in many ways but also very different. Kids will learn about Canada's diverse wildlife as well as some of its biggest cities such as Toronto and Vancouver. They will read about what school is like for kids in Canada, how people often speak both English and French, and how Canadians enjoy playing hockey.
El Salvador
by Walter Simmons
read by Dana Fleming
Part of the Exploring Countries series
El Salvador is the smallest and most densely populated Central American country. Because of its location on the Pacific Ring of Fire, it must endure volcanic eruptions and earthquakes. Hurricanes also sweep in from the Caribbean. However, El Salvadorians don't let these events quiet their vibrant culture. This book introduces El Salvador's landscape, cuisine, wildlife, heritage, and much more!
Peru
by Lisa Owings
read by Dana Fleming
Part of the Exploring Countries series
Many different civilizations have lived on the land that is now Peru. Today, tourists travel to this South American country to see Machu Picchu, an ancient Inca site. Learn more about Peru, its people, the Amazon Rain Forest, and much more in this exciting title!
Cambodia
by Walter Simmons
read by Dana Fleming
Part of the Exploring Countries series
For many years, Cambodia was a war-torn country. Recently, a new government has helped turn the economy around and given the Cambodian people more opportunity. Tourism has boomed, with many visitors heading to see Angkor Wat, one of the oldest religious temples in the world. This book explores the geography and culture of Cambodia, a jewel of Southeast Asia.
The Netherlands
by Lisa Owings
read by Mandy Kaplan
Part of the Exploring Countries series
Most people in the Netherlands ride bicycles to get to work, enjoy the landscape, and for sport. They look forward to spring when they can pedal past world-famous tulip fields in full bloom. This introduction to the Netherlands will get young readers' wheels turning by giving them a glimpse of this small, relaxed European country.
Mexico
by Colleen Sexton
read by Dana Fleming
Part of the Exploring Countries series
Mexico has almost 6,000 miles of coastline. It borders both the Atlantic and the Pacific Oceans. Readers will discover the diverse physical features of Mexico, the variety of wildlife it boasts on land and in water, and what everyday life is like in both urban and rural settings.
South Korea
by Derek Zobel
read by Dana Fleming
Part of the Exploring Countries series
A land famous for green tea and the martial art of tae kwon do, South Korea lies on a peninsula in southern Asia. Many small islands fill the waters off its coast, including the volcanic Cheju Island. Learn all about South Korea's landscapes, the everyday life of its people, and the country's history with North Korea.
Iceland
by Lisa Owings
read by Mandy Kaplan
Part of the Exploring Countries series
Iceland is known as "the land of fire and ice." This is because the island has around 200 volcanoes and about a tenth of its area is covered with glaciers. The colors of the national flag represent these defining land features. Explore the pages of this book to learn about the Icelandic people, culture, and landscape.
Costa Rica
by Jim Bartell
read by Dana Fleming
Part of the Exploring Countries series
Costa Rica, which means "Rich Coast," is aptly named. Its long coastlines, bordering the Caribbean Sea to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the west, have some of the most diverse ecosystems on Earth. Young readers will learn about Costa Rica's booming ecotourism, the daily life and cuisine, and the peaceful, laid-back nature of its people.
Venezuela
by Kari Schuetz
read by Mandy Kaplan
Part of the Exploring Countries series
Venezuela is a land of striking beauty. Angel Falls, the highest waterfall in the world, plunges more than 3,000 feet in the Guiana Highlands. Lake Maracaibo, the largest lake in South America, sits in northwestern Venezuela. Eager readers will get their feet wet in this title that explores Venezuela's landscape, people, and heritage.
Indonesia
by Lisa Owings
read by Mandy Kaplan
Part of the Exploring Countries series
As a country of 17,000 islands, Indonesia is truly unique. It's fitting that many rare animals make their homes in Indonesia. The venomous Komodo dragon, one of the deadliest animals in the world, is one such animal. Encounter it in this title as you learn about life on the Indonesian islands.
