"For many people outside of Greece, their understanding of this European nation is limited to what happened in ancient times and what food is served at their local Greek diner. However, the story of Greece is much more complex, and readers discover it all in this comprehensive guide to its past, its present, and its path into the future. From the economic crisis that has rocked the nation to the tourism boom for areas such as Santorini, readers get...

"Ireland is a nation known for its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and unique culture. Readers explore these and many other aspects of life on the Emerald Isle in this meticulously researched and updated guide to Irish culture. Focused chapters highlight the tumultuous history of this nation, its natural resources, its arts scene, and much more. Readers even get a taste of Irish cuisine and are invited to try their hand at preparing it with the...

"The culture of Mexico is colorful and complex, and readers are given a comprehensive look at its most unique elements in this guide to life in America's neighbor to the south. Chapters focused on geography, history, politics, and the economy supplement social studies curriculum topics, and others focused on leisure, arts, and food add plenty of fun along the way. Fact boxes and full-color photographs enhance this exciting reading experience, and...

"Vive la France! (Long live France!) The French mostly use this phrase during patriotic celebrations, but tourists to the country are sure to adopt the saying after experiencing all France has to offer. It is consistently the world's top tourist destination"--

"Readers discover the complex history of Germany and how geography, government, and economics have worked together to help shape the culture of this country in this comprehensive look at one of Europe's most powerful nations. Readers interested in activism will be inspired by content relating to the concept of global citizenship. Those with an interest in travel are sure to enjoy fact boxes that highlight helpful German phrases for travelers and essential...

"The South Asian land we now call Pakistan has been home to different important groups and civilizations since ancient times, but it did not become its own nation until it was separated from India by the British in 1947. Readers dive deep into Pakistan's past as they explore the relationship between history and contemporary culture. Focused chapters highlight Pakistan's geography, religious groups, government, and more, and readers also develop a...

"The history of Vietnam is complicated and filled with conflict, and that history has impacted the nation's culture in major ways. Readers explore the relationship between Vietnam's history, geography, and culture in this thoroughly updated look at the Southeast Asian nation. With chapters highlighting economics, arts, religion, language, and the lifestyles of the Vietnamese people, readers are given a comprehensive overview of Vietnam that is enhanced...

"If any one thing defines the Afghan experience, it has been an almost constant invasion and domination by outsiders. (The other thing that defines Afghan life is poverty.) Perhaps that historical truth can help to explain the fiercely independent-some would say "warlike"-cultures of the country's various tribal groups. Many Afghans are still overwhelmingly more allegiant to their families, clans, and local leaders-some would say "warlords"-than to...

"Readers take a tour through Brazil in this comprehensive look at its geography, history, and culture. As readers explore main text that has been meticulously updated to highlight current events, they also find stunning photographs of Brazil's natural beauty and vibrant way of life. Featuring fact boxes that highlight essential words and phrases to know when traveling to this South American nation and points of interest to put on your itinerary, this...

"The nation of South Africa has been through its share of struggles. From British colonialism to the brutal system of apartheid, South Africans-especially Black South Africans-throughout history have worked hard to build and hold on to their unique culture in challenging times. Readers explore both the history and present cultural environment of South Africa in this carefully updated guide to Africa's southernmost nation. Fact boxes, full-color photographs,...