Cambodia

Blastoff! Readers: Exploring Countries

by Walter Simmons

For many years, Cambodia was a war-torn country. Recently, a new government has helped turn the economy around and given the Cambodian people more opportunity. Tourism has boomed, with many visitors heading to see Angkor Wat, one of the oldest religious temples in the world. This book explores the geography and culture of Cambodia, a jewel of Southeast Asia.

32 pages, Unknown Binding

First published January 1, 2012

Reviews

[Dad · Rating 5 out of 5]

A neat book to enjoy some quick facts about Cambodia. One fact that made me sick was that they sell fried insects to eat from shops on the street. There is a lake called Tonle Sap in the middle of Cambodia. I have heard of it during the Vietnam War. 80% of the people live in the countryside and are farmers, mostly there. They have a fruit called durians. a religious structure they revere is called Angkor Wat, which is left over from a civilization long ago. It was built in about 1200 A.D. There are still tigers, leopards, and even some wild elephants there. ..... A good book.

[AMY · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exploring Countries series; 32 pages. Great basic information and photos. Good resource for reports or recreational reading. Highly recommended for Grades 4-5.

[Hilary · Rating 2 out of 5]

In simple-to-read language, Simmons provides a primary introduction to Cambodia. For many years, Cambodia was a war-torn country. However, this text glosses over the Cambodian War, with only a brief mention of the Khmer Rouge. Instead, the focus is on contemporary Cambodia, where a new government has helped turn the economy around. This book explores the geography and culture of Cambodia, offering facts and statistics accompanied by colorful illustrations, maps, and photographs.

The interesting facts and sidebars have kid appeal, and readers will enjoy trying to pronounce the Khmer words on page 13, and will find basic facts summarized on single or double-paged spreads useful. A glossary, bibliography, and index round out the volume.

Angkor Wat, one of the oldest religious temples in the world, is very important to the Cambodian people. Cambodia may be the only country in the world with the outline of a building (Angkor Wat) on its national flag. Recent warfare has placed this tourist destination and religious icon in jeopardy, but again, no mention of open hostilities is mentioned in the texc.

Reluctant readers who must research a country for reports will embrace this text, but will need to consult other materials for a more comprehensive, in-depth source of information or for a more complete approach to the Cambodia’s history.