Beyond Our Borders: Mexico

Part of New Dimension Media's new 30-volume Beyond Our Borders cultural geography series, Mexico combines clear narration, fine location footage, and maps to present a wealth of information on our neighbor to the south, which even after four centuries of European influence still boasts 22 distinct cultures. Exploring the history and culture of Mexico—which features more than 6,000 miles of coastline—segments here include looks at ancient Indian cultures such as the Olmec, Aztec, and Mayan (praise is lavished on their sophisticated math and astronomy skills, including their famous calendar), the ruins of Chichen Iza, the Lacondon rainforest, the church of Santa Domingo in Oaxaca City, silver mining in Taxco, the world's second largest barrier reef near the Yucatan Peninsula, tourist meccas (Cozumel Island, Mazatlan, and Aculpulco), and a detailed look at the Day of the Dead, a Mexican tradition featuring celebrations that include music, street dancing, and fireworks displays. Other titles available in the series include Egypt, Indonesia, Philippines, Scandinavia, Ukraine and Zimbabwe. Interesting and informative, this program—geared towards grades 6-10—is recommended. Aud: I, J, H. (J. Williams-Wood)