Recently, I had a request from a 1st grade teacher for books on maps. Primary grade students learn about their towns and communities, and part of the curriculum includes some basics on maps. The following books had fun travel stories that included some map elements, or could be easily adapted to include map-making. For hands-on craft ideas, check out All Around Town: Exploring Your Community Through Craft Fun by Judy Press, Williamson Publishing, 2002.

Axelrod, Amy. THE NEWS HOUNDS IN THE GREAT BALLOON RACE: A GEOGRAPHY ADVENTURE.
Three dogs who are TV announcers go to Texas, to cover a hot air balloon race. Lots of maps included!

Brisson, Pat. KATE ON THE COAST.
Told in a series of letters that Kate writes to her friend. Kate's vacation includes visits to California.

Brisson, Pat. YOUR BEST FRIEND, KATE.
Kate's letters to her friend describe her family's trip through the Southern states.

Hennessy, B.G. THE ONCE UPON A TIME MAP BOOK.

March 23, 2005