From School Library Journal
Grade 5-8-A timely, readable, well-illustrated, accurate portrayal of life in the newly independent, former Soviet Central Asian republic. In four chapters, Tajikistan's history, geography, culture, economic conditions, environmental concerns, and future outlook are described. Every page contains at least one high-quality color photograph, which greatly enhances the text. The maps are also first-rate. Considerable material on the nation's problems-a fast-growing population, high infant mortality, language barriers, a volatile ethnic mixture, and a paucity of qualified leaders and professionals to fill the gaps left by departing, educated Russians-is provided. Some of the presentation suffers from oversimplification, e.g., the difference between Sunni and Shiite Muslims is mentioned, but not discussed. On the other hand, a section on the linguistic, political, and historical derivations of the Tajik language includes details that may confuse some readers. Overall, this series entry is very well done and should be added to libraries needing recent information on this troubled part of the world.
Sue A. Norkeliunas, Arlington Senior High School, LaGrangeville, NY
Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Sue A. Norkeliunas, Arlington Senior High School, LaGrangeville, NY
Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Library of Congress
Discusses the geography, history, people, economics, politics, and future of the central Asian country that was the smallest and poorest Soviet republic.
