A comprehensive learning tool for middle-school and high-school students and their families, this user-friendly reference is packed with full-size, full-colour physical and political maps of the world and its continents plus thematic maps that examine topics such as the Earth's geologic history, climate and vegetation, population, world food, predominant economies, and energy and mineral resources. Vivid photo-essays, stunning images taken from space, and concise, fact-filled text underscore the connection between geography concepts and today's real world. Charts, graphs, and fact boxes provide key information at a glance, encouraging students to compare data and develop higher-level thinking skills.