Where In The World: Kids Explore Mexico, Vol. 1

Winner of Parent's Choice Gold Awards and an Emmy, the video geography series Where in the World is a lively introduction to new lands, currently comprising three volumes (Mexico, Alaska, and Kenya). Targeted towards children aged 5-11, the programs are available in two versions. In the school/library version, the program is split into two parts with some overlap, and runs 40 minutes. In the home video version, the program is continuous and runs a half-hour. We watched the tape on Mexico, which uses the framing device of a large package which arrives from a pen pal in Mexico. Exploring the contents of both the box and its accompanying letter, the neighborhood children learn about the history, customs, culture, language, and geography of Mexico. The pacing is excellent, and the production does a good job of mixing the entertainment and educational aspects, cutting back and forth from scenes in Mexico to reactions at the kids' clubhouse. School libraries will most likely want the school/library version which contains a break for discussion; public libraries who are not involved in public performance will do fine with the home video version. Highly recommended. (Available from: Encounter Video, Inc., 2580 NW Upshur, Portland, OR 97210; 1-800-677-7607.)