Celebremos la Diversidad Hispana (Celebrating Hispanic Diversity)

Culture can be defined as the beliefs, practices, and arts of a group of people. The culture of Puerto Rico is as varied and intricate as the many people who live there. Readers will learn that before the arrival of the Spanish, Puerto Rico was called Boriquen by the Taínos. They will also learn that it has the only tropical rain forest in the U.S. Forest System, and that it isn't an island. Puerto Rico's culture is shaped by the landscape, resources, and its rich history. Emphasizing Puerto Rico's contributions to sports, arts, music, and literature, this book offers a comprehensive look at the country and its people. Augmented by colorful photographs, this high-interest take on curricular social studies subjects is sure to hold readers' attention.

Located on the island of Hispaniola in the Caribbean Sea, the Dominican Republic is a unique place with a rich cultural heritage. In this text, readers will learn that the Dominican Republic has the oldest European settlement in the Western Hemisphere, is the only second largest island in the Caribbean and many more interesting elements that have shaped the culture of its people. Stunning, full-color photographs accompany the text, bringing concepts into dazzling focus. This thorough investigation of social studies topics is sure to hold reader's attention while supporting elementary curriculum.

Who are the people of Cuba? Readers will probe this question through this lively book about the cultural traditions, festivals, music, art, dance, and food of this Caribbean island nation. Analyzing how the country's history has shaped the cultural identity of its people, this comprehensive text sheds light on the unique contributions Cubans have made. Readers also learn that it is the largest island and most populated country in the Caribbean. Each spread features stunning photographs, which make the information pop. This engaging take on curricular social studies concepts is sure to capture readers' attention.

Situated between the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, Costa Rica is home to a diverse populace. From its indigenous origins, through Spanish colonization, the fight for independence, and modern globalization, the country's history has shaped the rich cultural heritage of its people. In this dynamic text, readers will not only discover about Costa Rica's art and cuisine, but also how this unique nation is home to more than 5 percent of the world's biodiversity, and that 25 percent of its land is national parks. Vivid photographs bring the comprehensive content into sharp focus, and reader-friendly language clarifies complex concepts. This book is an excellent supplement to elementary social studies curriculum.

Do you know where the largest lake in South America is? Venezuela. Readers will be captivated by this vibrant book about the cultural traditions, festivals, music, art, dance, and cuisine of Venezuela. The culture of Venezuela is as multi-faceted as the people living there. The thorough text analyzes how its diverse landscape, with the tallest waterfall in the world, resources like oil, which Venezuela has the largest reserve in the world, and history have shaped the cultural identity of its people. The high-interest subject matter and accessible language help clarify advanced social studies concepts. Stunning photographs enhance each chapter.

Mexico's resplendent culture is evidence of the rich heritage of its people. Readers will explore the converging cultures that have shaped Mexico, from ancient civilizations such as the Zapotec and Maya, to the French and Spanish. With vibrant photographs and accessible, informative content, readers will learn how the capital was built on a lake by the Aztecs, the contributions Mexican people have made to art, literature, and much more. This multi-faceted analysis of history and culture offers a unique take on curricular social studies.